Caprylic acid is a naturally occurring saturated fatty acid which can help treat to infections such as candidiasis, ringworm, gastroenteritis and salmonella. It can also be used to treat other fungal, yeast and bacterial infections and dissolve gallstones.
Research has revealed that caprylic acid is able to activate a protein called ghrelin, which in turn stimulates the hunger centre in the brain and increases appetite. This may prove to be particularly useful for patients with poor appetites, which can occur following an operation or chronic illness.
Caprylic acid can also boost energy levels in weak patients because it can enter the mitochondria very easily. The mitochondria are small organs within the cells that are responsible for producing all the energy needed by tissues. Because of its unique chemical structure caprylic acid can seep through the outside shell of the mitochondria where it can then be broken down to release energy. In this way the overall energy levels are increased, which helps aid recovery. Consuming natural foods containing caprylic acid may also curb a deficiency of vitamin A.
NOTE: It is advisable to limit consumption of foods containing this fatty acid due to high saturated-fat content and its ability to activate the hormone ghrelin which stimulates hunger for carbohydrate-rich foods which is especially important if trying to lose weight.
Highest sources of caprylic acid
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Related subjects
- A-Z of nutrients
- Bacterial infections and natural antibiotics
- Candidiasis
- Fungal and yeast infections
- Gall bladder disorders (gallstones)
- Intestinal disorders (gastroenteritis)
- Obesity
- Skin disorders (ringworm)
- Vitamin A
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