Hello,

I am curious about which part of the digestive system absorbs MCT oil into the bloodstream. If I understand correctly, due to its small molecules, it is absorbed before reaching the stomach/intestines and travels directly to the liver, where it is converted into energy. But how does it get into the bloodstream?

I am also interested in whether vitamins A, D, E, and K are soluble in MCT or if it doesn't happen fast enough. Theoretically, is it possible to live solely on MCT oil, or does it lack something important?

Thank you very much for your response.

MCT fats are absorbed by the cells of the intestinal mucosa, primarily in the form of free fatty acids. Since they are hydrophilic and have a smaller molecular size, the entire process is relatively quick (compared to long-chain fatty acids). From the intestinal mucosa, they immediately enter the bloodstream, where they are bound to serum albumin and reach the liver tissue directly via the portal vein (vena portae).

MCTs are fats (they are a source of saturated medium-chain fatty acids) and as such, they are linked to the metabolism of lipophilic vitamins. If you consume them as part of natural foods (coconut oil, dairy products...), these foods also contain fat-soluble vitamins. In real life, a situation where MCTs are the only source of fats in the diet does not practically occur—since they are not a source of essential fatty acids, it is not possible to consume only these.

Themes:  Fats   MCT oil