Synergistic Effects of Medium-Chain Triglyceride Supplementation and Resistance Training on Physical Function and Muscle Health in Post-Stroke Patients

Background/Objectives: Sarcopenia and malnutrition are common in post-stroke patients, impairing recovery. Medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) may support muscle metabolism, while chair-stand exercises improve strength and mobility. However, their combined effects remain unclear. This study evaluated the synergistic effects of MCT supplementation and high-frequency chair-stand exercise on physical function and muscle health in post-stroke patients. Methods: A retrospective cohort study included 1080 post-stroke patients categorized into three groups: (1) MCT supplementation alone, (2) chair-stand exercise alone, and (3) both combined. MCT supplementation consisted of similar to 40 g/day MCT oil or powder. Functional outcomes were assessed using the Functional Independence Measure (FIM-motor), while muscle health was evaluated by handgrip strength (HGS) and skeletal muscle index (SMI). Multiple linear regression analyses were performed, adjusting for confounders. Results: The combined intervention group showed significantly greater improvements in FIM-motor scores at discharge (B = 8.79, 95% CI: 5.64-11.95, beta = 0.32, p < 0.001) and FIM-motor gain (B = 6.02, 95% CI: 3.42-8.62, beta = 0.29, p < 0.001) compared to the control. Increases in HGS (B = 2.441, 95% CI: 0.483-4.398, beta = 0.18, p = 0.015) and SMI (B = 0.194, 95% CI: 0.102-0.419, beta = 0.12, p = 0.039) were also observed. Chair-stand exercise was performed a median of 62 times/day and independently improved outcomes, while MCT alone had limited effects. Conclusions: MCT supplementation combined with chair-stand exercise enhances functional recovery and muscle health in post-stroke patients, supporting its role in rehabilitation. Further research is needed to evaluate long-term effects and to examine the pharmacokinetics of MCTs, including blood concentrations, in broader populations.