Medium Chain Triglyceride (MCT) Oil

XtraCal Plus is uniquely formulated with a special class of fatty acids called medium-chain triglycerides (MCT’s) which have a preferred pattern of absorption resulting in better outcomes.  About 97% of dietary fats and oils are made up of long-chain triglycerides (LCT’s). LCT’s contain  16-24 carbon atoms which require extensive processing by the body to break into smaller units for absorption. Diseases of the pancreas, liver or small intestine impair this process resulting in malabsorption and diarrhea. MCT’s contain only 8-12 carbon atoms which are much shorter in length and more water-soluble. As a result, MCT’s are well tolerated and are easily digested, absorbed and utilized. Once they enter the blood stream they are transported directly into the liver where they can be rapidly converted for cellular energy. Scientific studies have shown that MCT’s benefit patients suffering from malnutrition, fat malabsorption, chronic diarrhea, short bowel syndrome and weight loss in patients with AIDS as it requires less energy for absorption, utilization and storage.  Stressed or critically ill patients also have a decreased ability to digest LCT’s which makes MCT oil a better calorie source.  Standard high calorie supplements rely on sugar for calories and as such are not appropriate for individuals with metabolic stress or diabetes. Excess sugar during critical illness can heighten inflammation. By providing calories from MCT’s, XtraCal Plus promotes weight gain without contributing to hyperglycemia or the inflammatory response in metabolically stressed or diabetic patients.