C8 (caprylic acid) triglyceride — the most ketogenic MCT. Absorbed via portal vein (vs lymphatic transport of long-chain FAs), bypasses chylomicron formation, and directly reaches liver where β-oxidation produces acetyl-CoA faster than the TCA cycle can consume it → ketogenesis. Raises plasma BHB ~0.3–0.5 mmol/L within 60–90 min — milder than ester-based products but sustained over 3–4 h.
Half-Life (t½)
PO: 2h
Dosing Guidelines
PO: Typical 16.7 g (Range: 10–30 g)
Target Organ Systems
cardiovascular
immune-hematologic
Interactions
MCT C10 (synergistic): Commercial 'MCT oil' usually blends C8/C10 ~60:40 for balance of ketogenic yield + tolerability.