Research
Energy balance
Ketogenic interventions, including Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs) and coconut oil, provide an alternative energy source for the brain by increasing ketone bodies, which may benefit individuals with Alzheimer's disease or insulin resistance.
For individuals with cognitive decline or insulin resistance, consider adding Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs) or coconut oil to the diet. This may provide an alternative energy source for the brain and support cognitive function, especially if glucose utilization is impaired.
ModerateConditionalMEDIUM confidence
Ketone bodies serve as an alternative and efficient fuel for neurons and other brain cells, as well as protecting neurons from oxidative damage. Moreover, the ketone body BHB is able to raise the levels of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)... small amounts of medium chain triglycerides (MCTs, 20–30 g C10/d) are able to close an energy gap typically found in aging individuals and delay the onset of AD symptoms.
Why this rating
Based on mechanistic studies, case studies, and some interventional data; more large-scale RCTs needed.
Source
Exploring the Association between Alzheimer’s Disease, Oral Health, Microbial Endocrinology and Nutrition
A. K. Harding et al. · Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience · 2017
DOI 10.3389/fnagi.2017.00398
narrative_reviewCited 108×
Read the paper DOI resolved against Crossref · corpus check 2026-06-10
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