Unique Medium Chain Triglyceride Product Rapidly Enhances Brain Function: A Pilot Investigational Study

Abstract

PURPOSE: Medium Chain Triglyceride (MCT) compounds are purported to increase brain energy based upon the relationship between MCT products and ketone production, especially for older individuals or those on low-carbohydrate diets. Little evidence exists that MCT products positively affect brain function, short-term. In this pilot study, Intervention Group (IG )subjects were tested prior to ingestion of a proprietary MCT product, and then 90 minutes later using the same electro-encephalographic (EEG) device and compared to a control group (CG). METHODS: Eight (8) IG volunteers, aged 49-68 years old, (male = 5, female =3) were compared to three (3) CG volunteers, aged 48 to 68 years old, (male = 3). Study subjects completed standard EEG testing prior to ingestion of the compound, and 90 minutes after consuming the compound or placebo. Testing consisted of a P300 audio reaction time test and two visual decision making/reaction tests. RESULTS: The IG increased brain function as measured with evoke potentials, time to task and graphic representations compared to the control group. The decrease for the IG in the audio reaction time test was 340 milliseconds to 314 milliseconds. In addition, the tens of millivolt (μV) activation during the auditory reaction time test increased from 7.5 μV to 12.9 μV, indicating increased brain functional activity. The CG showed essentially no voltage changes. The IG decreased times in the first trail making test from 94 to 57 seconds, and decreased time to complete the second trail making test from 113 to 93 seconds. Descriptive statistics revealed the measures for the IG had statistical significance (P<0.5) for the second trail making test and strong positive trends for all other parameters. Topographic brain maps from the test revealed a representative picture of the changes from taking the supplement. CONCLUSIONS: In this pilot study, consumption of a proprietary MCT combination produced marked enhancement in brain activity 90 minutes after ingestion with significant increases in relation to topographical brain maps. Further investigation is warranted to determine optimal ingestion conditions and time to effect for this and similar products across various populations. EEG measurements show promise as assessment biomarkers for the effects of nutritional supplements on brain function.