Not Your Ordinary Fat. In the mouth and stomach, salivary enzymes almost instantly break down MCTs, rendering pancreatic enzymes basically useless. Also, once broken down into medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs), they are not packaged into lipoproteins in the intestinal tract but are absorbed directly from the intestines and transferred directly to the liver.
Reducing Stress Once Again. MCFAs not only allow us to easily absorb much needed fats, but they also enhance the absorption of vitamin E, calcium, magnesium, and amino acids. Ultimately, much less strain is placed on the pancreas and digestive system, which is crucial for patients who suffer from digestive and malabsorption issues.
References:
Fife, B. (2004). The Coconut Oil Miracle. New York: Avery.
Kiyasu, G. Y. (1952). The portal transport of absorbed fatty acids. Journal of Biological Chemistry, 199.
Kono, H., Enomoto, N., Connor, H. D., Wheeler, M. D., Bradford, B. U., Rivera, C. A., Kadiiska, M. B., Mason, R. P. & Thurman, R. G. (2000). Medium-chain triglycerides inhibit free radical formation and TNF-alpha production in rats given enternal ethanol. American Journal of Physiology, Gastrointestinal and Liver Physiology, 278(3).
Tantibhedhyangkul, P. & Hashim, S. A. (1978). Medium-chain triglyceride feeding in premature infants: Effects on calcium and magnesium absorption. Pediatrics, 61(4).









