Acute Effects of MCT Formulations on Beta-Hydroxybutyrate Response, Lipid Profile, and Glucose Levels in Healthy Adults

Overview

The goal of this clinical trial is to evaluate the effects of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), delivered in different formulations, on beta-hydroxybutyrate response (as a marker of ketone body production), lipid metabolism, and glucose responses in healthy adults. The main questions it aims to answer are: Do MCTs influence beta-hydroxybutyrate responses, lipid metabolism, and glucose responses differently compared to long-chain triglycerides (LCTs)? Do different types of MCTs (natural sources containing C8 to C12 versus synthetic formulations containing only C8 and C10) lead to different beta-hydroxybutyrate, lipid, and glucose responses? Does the form in which MCTs are consumed (e.g., powders or incorporated into foods) influence beta-hydroxybutyrate production, lipid metabolism, and glucose responses? Researchers will compare five different lipid formulations to evaluate their effects on postprandial beta-hydroxybutyrate concentrations, blood lipid levels, and glucose. Participants will: Consume five different test products on separate study visits. Provide blood samples for up to five hours after each intake for metabolic measurements.

This randomized crossover study is designed to evaluate the metabolic effects of five different lipid-based formulations in healthy adults. Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) are known to be rapidly absorbed and metabolized, promoting the production of ketone bodies, which can serve as an alternative energy source. However, metabolic responses to MCTs may vary depending on their fatty acid composition and the form in which they are consumed. The study compares different lipid formulations, including long-chain triglycerides (LCTs), synthetic MCTs composed of C8 and C10 fatty acids, and MCTs derived from natural sources such as coconut oil (containing C8 to C12 fatty acids). In addition, the study evaluates the impact of the food matrix by comparing similar lipid compositions provided in different forms, including reconstituted powders and a solid food product. Participants attend multiple study visits after an overnight fast and consume each test product in a randomized order. The amount of each product is adjusted to provide a standardized lipid dose of 0.5 g/kg of body weight, and a washout period of at least 7 days is applied between visits. During each visit, blood samples are collected over a period of up to 5 hours after product consumption. Primary metabolic outcomes include postprandial beta-hydroxybutyrate concentrations (as a marker of ketone body production), glucose response, and triglyceride response. Secondary outcomes include circulating fatty acid profiles, ghrelin concentrations, and subjective appetite ratings assessed using visual analogue scales.