a-clinical-nutritionist-wants-to-design-a-formula-for-rapid-energy-delivery-to-a

Question

A clinical nutritionist wants to design a formula for rapid energy delivery to a patient. Which fatty acid type should they incorporate to maximize rapid absorption and oxidation, and why?

Accepted Answer

Medium-chain fatty acids (6–12 C) because they are absorbed more rapidly, can travel to the liver via the portal vein, and are oxidized more quickly than long-chain fatty acids.

Answer

Short-chain fatty acids (1–5 C) because they are the most common in the diet and are stored preferentially in adipose tissue for slow-release energy.

Answer

Long-chain saturated fatty acids (≥13 C) because their incorporation into chylomicrons allows direct immediate oxidation in peripheral tissues.

Answer

Polyunsaturated trans fatty acids because partial hydrogenation accelerates portal absorption and provides immediate ATP via cytosolic enzymes.