Medium-Chain Triglycerides
Supplement Forms/Alternate Names:
Introduction
Medium-chain triglycerides are fats that come from coconut oil, palm oil, and butter. They have been used to manage body weight and improve mental function. Medium-chain triglycerides can be taken as an oil, pill, or powder. They can also be injected into the bloodstream by a healthcare provider.
Dosages
There are no advised doses for medium-chain triglycerides.
What Research Shows
Likely Effective
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Obesity
—likely to help lower body weight B1
Not Enough Data to Assess
Editorial process and description of evidence categories can be found at
EBSCO NAT Editorial Process.
Editorial process and description of evidence categories can be found at
EBSCO NAT Editorial Process.
Safety Notes
It is likely safe to take medium-chain triglycerides in small doses for a short time, but stomach upset may happen. Not enough studies have been done to say whether they are safe to take for a long period. It is also not known whether it is safe to take by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Interactions
Talk to your doctor about any supplements or therapy you would like to use. Some can interfere with treatment or make conditions worse.
References
REFA
Cognitive Function
REFA1
Abe S, Ezaki O, et al. Medium-Chain Triglycerides in Combination with Leucine and Vitamin D Increase Muscle Strength and Function in Frail Elderly Adults in a Randomized Controlled Trial. J Nutr. 2016 May;146(5):1017-1026.
REFA2
Abe S, Ezaki O, et al. Medium-Chain Triglycerides in Combination with Leucine and Vitamin D Benefit Cognition in Frail Elderly Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Nutr Sci Vitaminol (Tokyo). 2017;63(2):133-140.
REFB
Obesity
REFB1
Mumme K, Stonehouse W. Effects of medium-chain triglycerides on weight loss and body composition: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. J Acad Nutr Diet. 2015;115(2):249-263.
- EBSCO NAT Review Board
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202206