Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Medium chain triglycerides (MCTs) are used to support the management of Fatty Liver Disease (specifically nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, NAFLD) based on emerging scientific evidence, although the strength of the evidence is currently modest. MCTs are fats that are more readily absorbed and metabolized by the liver than long-chain triglycerides, and they are less likely to be stored in the liver as fat. Some animal and small-scale human studies have shown that MCT supplementation may help reduce liver fat accumulation and improve metabolic parameters associated with NAFLD. For instance, a 2019 study in Clinical Nutrition demonstrated that replacing dietary long-chain fats with MCTs reduced intrahepatic fat content in overweight adults. The proposed mechanisms include increased fatty acid oxidation, improved insulin sensitivity, and reduced de novo lipogenesis (fat creation) in the liver. However, clinical trials are still limited in size and duration, and results are not entirely consistent, with some studies showing modest or no effect. There is no strong tradition of using MCTs for liver health in historical medicine; the rationale is mainly based on biochemical properties and recent scientific exploration. Thus, while there is some scientific foundation for using MCTs in fatty liver disease, more robust, long-term clinical trials are needed to confirm efficacy and safety.

More about medium chain triglycerides (MCT)
More about Fatty Liver Disease

Other ingredients used for Fatty Liver Disease

Other health conditions supported by medium chain triglycerides (MCT)

Products containing medium chain triglycerides (MCT)

Nature's Sunshine Love and Peas (Sugar Free)
Nature's Sunshine Candida Clear
Nature's Sunshine Love and Peas
Nature's Sunshine Nature's Harvest