Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Diacylglycerol (DAG) is a glyceride consisting of two fatty acid chains covalently bonded to a glycerol molecule. It is used in some functional foods and dietary supplements, primarily in Japan, for its potential to influence fat metabolism. The scientific rationale for using DAG stems from studies showing that dietary oils rich in diacylglycerol, as opposed to the more common triacylglycerol (TAG), may be metabolized differently in the body. Clinical studies, particularly randomized controlled trials, have reported that DAG oil consumption can lead to greater postprandial fat oxidation and lower postprandial triglyceride levels compared to TAG oil. Some studies also suggest long-term DAG oil intake may modestly reduce body weight and fat accumulation in overweight or obese individuals. The proposed mechanism is that DAG is more readily used as an energy source and less likely to be stored as body fat due to differences in its absorption and subsequent metabolic processing.

However, while there is a scientific basis and some clinical evidence, the overall effect size appears modest and not universally observed. Regulatory agencies such as the FDA have not approved DAG oil for the treatment of poor fat metabolism or obesity, and some studies report no significant benefit. Thus, the evidence is supportive but not strong, leading to a mid-level rating.

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