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?

• A. 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.
• B. 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.
• C. Long-chain saturated fatty acids (≥13 C) because their incorporation into chylomicrons allows direct immediate oxidation in peripheral tissues.
• D. Polyunsaturated trans fatty acids because partial hydrogenation accelerates portal absorption and provides immediate ATP via cytosolic enzymes.

Answer: (A)