Natural Supplement Shows Promise In Treating Heart Disease
Experts are actively researching new treatments for heart conditions, such as triglyceride deposit cardiomyovasculopathy (TDCV), a condition where heart cells struggle to break down triglycerides, eventually leading to heart failure. A recent study explored the effects of tricaprin, a medium-chain triglyceride found in coconut oil and dairy, on individuals with TDCV. Tricaprin has various uses, including in food, cosmetics, and supplements.
The study found that participants receiving tricaprin experienced significant cardiac improvements compared to those who did not. These benefits included enhanced fat breakdown in heart cells, better recovery from heart failure, and improved functioning of the left ventricle. The group treated with tricaprin also had higher overall survival rates.
TDCV is a recently identified condition where long-chain triglycerides accumulate in heart muscle cells, causing energy failure and coronary artery dysfunction. While some cases are genetic, others have unknown origins. Dr. Cheng-Han Chen, a cardiologist not involved in the study, highlighted the rarity of this disorder and the lack of effective treatments, emphasizing the importance of this research.
The study analyzed 22 participants who received tricaprin compared to 190 who did not. All participants had been diagnosed with TDCV at or after age 20. Those treated with tricaprin were required to have cardiac symptoms that didn’t respond to standard treatments. The results showed that tricaprin improved fat metabolism in heart cells and contributed to better heart function and long-term heart failure recovery.
Survival rates in the tricaprin group were notably better, with 100% survival at both three and five years, compared to lower survival rates in the control group. Additionally, participants with heart failure who received tricaprin also saw substantial survival benefits. Experts like Dr. Scott C. Feitell praised the study’s design and results, particularly the demonstrated improvement in heart function and metabolism, along with the significant patient benefits.
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