STIMULATION OF INSULIN SECRETION IN MAN BY MEDIUM CHAIN TRIGLYCERIDES

The effects of an orally administered medium chain triglyceride (MCT) preparation on blood glucose, plasma non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), and serum insulin levels have been determined in 10 normal volunteers and 9 patients with cirrhosis and evidence of portalsystemic communications. Blood glucose and plasma NEFA levels did not change appreciably in either group. Serum insulin levels increased significantly in the cirrhotic patients. It is suggested that MCT caused a modest stimulation of insulin secretion which was more easily detected in the cirrhotic patients because of (1) a reduced liver cell mass capable of binding insulin during its initial circulation through the liver, and (2) shunting around the liver through portalsystemic communications. © 1968.