Medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oils comprise a form of saturated fatty acid with numerous health benefits that range from improved cognitive function to better weight management. MCTs are easy to digest and are burned by the body to produce energy almost immediately upon consumption. Healthier than long-chain triglycerides, which are stored by the body for later use, MCTs are best sourced from coconut oil, which contains roughly 62 to 65 percent of the fatty acids.

MCT oil, which has also been growing in popularity among health enthusiasts, is a more concentrated form of MCTs that consist mostly of caprylic acid. The difference between MCT oil and coconut oil is that while coconut oil has MCTs in it, concentrated MCT oil is almost entirely MCTs.

According to Dr. Josh Axe, our brain is largely made up of fatty acids, and we need a steady supply from our diet to think clearly, perform well at work and stay sharp well into older age. A 2004 study published in the Journal of Neurobiology of Aging found that the MCTs in coconut oil helped improved memory problems, including Alzheimer’s disease in older adults.

Ada’s Natural Market, 7070 College Pkwy. in Fort Myers, carries MCT oil. For more information, call 239-939-9600 or visit AdasMarket.com.