No abstract

Purpose: Migraine headaches are among the most common worldwide medical issues, and various drug therapies only offer limited relief. Medium chain triglyceride (MCT) oil has demonstrated clinical benefits in multiple domains, from enhanced overall energy to increased brain function. This pilot study investigated the potential relief provided from a unique proprietary formulation, including a high concentration MCT-containing blend on migraine frequency, duration, and severity over 30 days. Methods: Fourteen (n=14) chronic migraine sufferers (migraineurs) were prospectively selected to participate in the open-label trial of this patented complex. Participants were instructed to maintain a consistent lifestyle, health factors, and medications while consuming the study compound. Because of the current Corona virus pandemic, the original paper version of the migraine survey was converted to an electronic response form to allow subjects increased safety in rating episodes and symptoms. Results: Overall, the subjects reduced the number of migraine episodes by 39% from the baseline period compared to after 30 days of using the supplement. The average episode duration decreased from 388 minutes to 152 minutes, a 61% reduction. Days/events missed due to migraine severity or complications were reduced from five per month to two per month, a decrease of 60%. A combined measure of specific symptoms also decreased according to subject rating, by an average of 32%. Conclusion: In this beta pilot study, consumption of a high concentration MCT complex produced significant improvements in migraine symptoms in the three significant episode realms of frequency, duration, and lost days due to dysfunction. In addition, migraine symptom surveys can be converted to electronic record keeping, a benefit for both the patient and the clinician. These outcomes have provided further impetus to pursue a rigorous study of specific MCT products to reduce migraine symptoms. A formal confirmatory placebo-controlled trial has been initiated.

Medium Chain Triglyceride (MCT)- based supplements have increased cognitive function in general and specific functional realms. Can an MCT complex improve mental focus in sports with a high, active cognitive component? This pilot investigation tested whether the proprietary MCT complex utilized could result in positive gains in mental focus or perception of enhanced energy on the course. Each of the ten subjects played a 9-hole round using a motor cart, pushcart, carry bag, or electric trolley (which simulated playing with a caddie) while wearing a portable metabolic system to determine baseline energy expenditure, mental focus, and score baseline. Data points recorded and averaged included the volume of oxygen used per minute total (VO2/L/min), oxygen used per kg of body weight per minute (VO2ml/kg/min), converted to kcal per hour, and heart rate. A 10-point mental focus scale had golfers rating tee shots, second through fourth shots, and the short game from 100 yards in. Using their preferred mode of transport and play, the subjects completed one more, 9-hole round after once-daily consumption of the supplement for seven days. The average rating of mental focus and perceived energy increased from a level of 5.77 to 7.22 out of 10, statistically significant at P= 0.0120. Actual play scores decreased from 10.8 to 8.9 over par for the 9-hole rounds, trending positively. This initial trial suggests that a proprietary MCT complex can improve actual golf performance and the golfer's perceptions of focus and energy regardless of which mode of transport and play is used.