Foods With Medium Chain Fatty Acids

Jun 14, 2011 | By Joseph Eitel

Medium chain fatty acids -- also referred to as MCTs or medium chain triglycerides -- are fats composed of capric and caprylic fatty acids and is easily digestible, according to certified Performance Nutrition specialist Clayton South of Bodybuilding.com. Although MCTs are available in supplemental form, they are also found naturally in certain types of foods. South asserts that medium chain fatty acids may help improve athletic performance and weight loss, based on anecdotal evidence.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil contains high levels of medium chain triglycerides. People who live in tropical regions have traditionally consumed more coconut oil than those in other parts of the world. According to the University of Michigan Health System, tropical populations, such as the Polynesians, tend to have lower instances of heart disease than those in Western countries. The combination of coconut oil and a healthful diet may reduce the risk of heart disease, according to a study conducted in 1981 by I.A. Prior, et al.,which examined the relationship between coconuts and cholesterol in the Polynesian diet.

Palm Kernel Oil

Derived from the kernel of the oil palm fruit, palm kernel oil is processed into two primary forms: Palm kernel olein and palm kernel stearin. Palm kernel olein is the liquid part of palm kernel oil, while palm kernel stearin is the solid byproduct of the extrusion process, according to the American Palm Oil Council. Palm kernel oil can be consumed in its natural state or may be an ingredient in foods, such as margarine, coffee whitener, filled milk and biscuit cream.

Butter

Fresh butter is one of the best sources of fat that is used by the body for quick energy, according to chef, nutrition researcher and author Sally Fallon in "Nourishing Traditions." She says that butter contains about 12 to 15 percent short and medium chain fatty acids, and these are the types of fats that are absorbed quickly by your body for efficient energy production. Fallon believes that medium chain fatty acids have anti-tumor, anti-microbial and immune system-supporting properties that can help boost your overall health.