Synopsis

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

Medium chain triglycerides (MCTs) have been explored as a supportive therapy in cancer, primarily based on their unique metabolic properties. MCTs are absorbed and metabolized differently from long-chain triglycerides, providing a rapid source of ketones and energy, especially when carbohydrate intake is reduced. The rationale for their use in cancer care is largely linked to the "Warburg effect," where many cancer cells preferentially utilize glucose for energy and are less efficient at using ketones or fatty acids. By providing MCTs—which are converted efficiently into ketones—some proponents argue that a ketogenic metabolic state may "starve" cancer cells of their preferred fuel while nourishing healthy cells. Preclinical studies and some small human trials have investigated ketogenic diets (often including MCTs) as adjunctive therapies for certain cancers, such as glioblastoma. These studies suggest potential benefits in terms of slowing tumor progression and improving quality of life, though results are inconsistent and limited by small sample sizes and lack of robust controls. There is insufficient high-quality clinical evidence to recommend MCTs or ketogenic diets as stand-alone cancer treatments. However, MCTs are sometimes used clinically to help manage cancer-related cachexia, as they can be a calorie-dense, easy-to-absorb fat source for patients with digestive difficulties. In summary, while there is a plausible scientific rationale and some early evidence supporting the adjunctive use of MCTs in cancer therapy, the evidence is still preliminary (rating 2/5), and MCTs should not replace standard cancer treatments.

More about medium chain triglycerides (MCT)
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Products containing medium chain triglycerides (MCT)

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