This diet uses medium chain triglycerides (MCT), a type of fat derived from coconut and palm oil alongside the long chain triglycerides (LCT) that is normally present in food. MCT is taken either as an oil or an emulsion. MCT has the advantage it can be used by the body (metabolised) a lot quicker than LCT and produces more ketones per gram of fat. As ketones are more readily available in this version of the ketogenic diet, less total fat is needed, meaning more carbohydrate and protein foods are allowed. Generally 30-60% of energy requirements will come from MCT. However, the exact amount for you or your child is decided by the ketogenic team.
Usually, MCT is introduced slowly into the diet as in some individuals it can lead to tummy upsets, and tolerance will be monitored by your ketogenic team. A source of MCT is required at each meal or snack and although this version of the diet provides greater flexibility to allow more protein and carbohydrate in the diet, like the classical ketogenic diet, meals still need to be planned, calculated and weighed.
