Medium chain triglycerides (MCT) are medium length chains of fatty acids that are digested without the modifications that longer chain fatty acids require.  Consuming MCT oil can increase energy expenditure compared to long chain fatty acids such as common saturated and unsaturated fats.

A recent study compared the intake of MCT oil to olive oil in overweight subjects.  Those consuming the MCT oil had greater weight loss, total fat loss and abdominal fat loss.  The weight loss benefits are most likely related to improved insulin sensitivity, increased energy expenditure and MCT’s resistance to storage in body fat.

PMID: 18326600