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Medium-chain triglyceride absorption in patients with pancreatic insufficiency
S Caliari1, L Benini, C Sembenini
1Division of Gastroenterologic Rehabilitation, University of Verona, Italy.
Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology
|January 1, 1996
Summary
Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) show better absorption than long-chain triglycerides (LCTs) in pancreatic insufficiency. However, pancreatic extracts are needed for optimal MCT absorption, negating benefits of replacing dietary fats.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- The efficacy of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) in managing pancreatic insufficiency remains debated.
- Investigating MCT absorption and the impact of pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) absorption in patients with pancreatic insufficiency.
- To determine the effect of pancreatic extracts on MCT absorption.
- To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of substituting dietary fats with MCTs.
Main Methods:
- A crossover study involving six patients with severe pancreatic steatorrhea.
- Diets consisted of low-fat with added butter (long-chain triglycerides, LCTs) or MCT oil, with and without pancreatic extracts.
- Duration of each dietary phase was five days.
Main Results:
- Steatorrhea was significant but lower with MCTs compared to LCTs.
- Pancreatic extracts reduced fecal fat, nitrogen, and weight losses for both MCT and LCT diets.
- No difference in steatorrhea was observed when MCTs and LCTs were consumed with pancreatic extracts.
Conclusions:
- Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) are better absorbed than long-chain triglycerides (LCTs) in pancreatic insufficiency.
- Optimal MCT absorption necessitates pancreatic enzyme supplementation.
- Replacing dietary fats with MCTs offers no advantage when pancreatic supplements are used.
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