Aturated fatty acids with 6–12 carbon atoms; an easily digestible source of fat-based energy.
Fatty acids containing 8-12 carbon atoms.
MCT oil, currently marketed as an ergogenic aid, is theorized to enhance endurance performance because their medium-chain fatty acids are readily absorbed and quickly metabolized independent of long-chain fatty acid transport mechanisms. While long-chain fatty acids are absorbed into the cells of the gut, reesterified to glycerol, and packaged as part of chylomicrons for absorption via the lymphatic system, medium-chain fatty acids tend to be absorbed directly into the portal circulation for transport to the liver. In the liver, they are primarily converted to ketones and used for energy or secreted to the general circulation for uptake by peripheral tissues. Researchers have suggested that the ketones produced can provide an alternate fuel source that could preserve muscle and liver glycogen during exercise.
Triglycerides with 8 to 10 carbon atoms. They are absorbed differently from long chain fatty acids (i.e., via the portal vein through the liver rather than as chylomicrons transported via the lymphatics) and therefore, have been used to treat malabsorption.