The body absorbs MCTs more rapidly than long-chain triglycerides (LCTs), which contain more carbons in their fatty acid chains. Due to their shorter chain length, MCTs travel more quickly from the gut to the liver and do not require bile to break them down like longer-chain fats require. Your liver typically breaks down fats to be either used as fuel or stored as body fat. Since MCTs easily enter your cells without being broken down, they are use as an immediate source of energy. When you’re in a fasted state, MCTs are converted into ketones in the liver. Ketones can pass through your blood-brain barrier, making them a source of energy for your brain cells.