Ketogenic effects of milk protein-coated medium-chain triglycerides in healthy men: A randomized, double-blind,...

Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) have ketogenic effects and are reportedly effective in improving cognitive and physical functions. We hypothesized that coating the MCT microparticles with protein can enhance their absorption in the intestinal tract and their ketogenic effects. This randomized, double-blind, crossover study examined the ketogenic effects of a single intake of milk protein-coated MCT (coated MCT) in healthy adults. Participants ingested 6 g of coated MCT or untreated MCT. Then, we measured the blood levels of ketone bodies and medium-chain fatty acids and gastrointestinal symptoms up to 6 h later. The coating treatment did not significantly affect the area under the curve of change in blood total ketone bodies (TKB) (primary outcome) (P > 0.05). Meanwhile, the maximum concentration of changes in TKB, β-hydroxybutyrate, acetoacetate, and octanoic acid (secondary outcome) was significantly higher in coated MCT than in untreated MCT (P < 0.05). Furthermore, TKB positively correlated with octanoic acid (P < 0.05). Both coated and untreated MCT showed mild gastrointestinal symptoms, with no significant difference observed between the groups (P > 0.05). Coated MCT may enhance the ketogenic effect and can be safely consumed. These findings are expected to support the development of new ketogenic therapeutic strategies.