Evidence supporting the use of: MCT / Medium Chain Triglycerides
For the health condition: Dementia

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

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

Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs) have garnered scientific interest for their potential role in supporting cognitive function in dementia, particularly Alzheimer’s disease. The rationale centers on the observation that the brains of individuals with Alzheimer's have impaired glucose metabolism, which is their primary energy source. MCTs are metabolized in the liver to produce ketone bodies, an alternative energy substrate that can be utilized by the brain. Several small clinical trials and pilot studies have explored whether MCT supplementation may improve cognitive outcomes in people with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease or mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

Some studies, such as those using caprylic triglyceride formulations (e.g., AC-1202), have shown modest improvements in cognitive performance in specific subgroups of patients, especially those without the APOE4 gene. However, these effects are generally small, inconsistent across studies, and often not statistically significant in broader populations. Several systematic reviews and meta-analyses conclude that while there is a plausible mechanistic rationale and some early clinical promise, the overall quality and quantity of evidence is low, with most studies being short-term and underpowered.

In summary, the use of MCTs for dementia is supported by a scientific hypothesis and limited clinical evidence. Larger and more rigorous trials are needed to establish efficacy. As of now, the evidence is suggestive but insufficient to recommend MCTs as a standard treatment for dementia.

More about MCT / Medium Chain Triglycerides
More about Dementia

Products containing MCT / Medium Chain Triglycerides

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.