Health Guide

Diglyceride

Diglycerides (specifically 1,3-Diglycerides) are a unique form of dietary fat found naturally in small amounts in our food, but often concentrated as an additive in processed foods. Unlike the fats that typically clog arteries (triglycerides), diglycerides are structured differently. They are often marketed as a 'healthier oil' in Japan and are gaining popularity as a dietary supplement for weight management. They work by encouraging your body to burn fat for energy rather than storing it, acting as a metabolic switch.

Evidence BasedDietary Supplement

VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Metabolic Fate of Dietary Fats

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis

Likelihood of Energy Use vs Storage

Fat Type →

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

Boosts Metabolism: Helps shift your body into fat-burning mode.
Reduces Body Fat: Clinical studies suggest it may help decrease abdominal fat and BMI.
Sustained Energy: Provides energy without the sharp blood sugar spikes associated with carbohydrates.

Deep Dive

Diglycerides, specifically the 1,3-diglyceride structure, function differently than standard cooking oils (triglycerides). When you eat standard oil, your body breaks it down, reassembles it, and stores it in fat cells. However, 1,3-diglycerides are absorbed differently. They travel directly to the liver and are quickly oxidized (burned) for energy. This process, known as beta-oxidation, essentially forces your body to use the fat you just ate as immediate fuel, potentially preventing it from being stored on your waistline.

Natural Food Sources

While concentrated supplements exist, you can find diglycerides in whole foods. Interestingly, the natural sources with higher concentrations are often calorie-dense, which is why extraction or supplementation is common for therapeutic doses.

Food	Amount	% DV
Soybean Oil	Moderate	~10%
Green Tea	Low	~2%
Beef Tallow	Moderate	~5%
Egg Yolks	Low	~3%

Supplementation

Dosage: The most common clinical dosage is 10 grams (approx. 2 teaspoons) taken twice daily with meals (breakfast and dinner).

Who should take it? It is best suited for adults looking to support weight loss efforts, specifically those trying to reduce visceral (belly) fat. It should be viewed as an aid to a healthy diet, not a magic pill.

Top Food Sources

Soybean Oil

Richest natural source, usually extracted for supplements.

Green Tea

Contains trace amounts of diglycerides.

Beef Tallow

Natural animal source.

Egg Yolk

Contains small amounts of 1,3-Diglycerides.

Pork Fat

Contains moderate levels.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, it is a type of fat (oil). However, the chemical structure is different from the oil you cook with (triglycerides), changing how your body processes it.

Supplemental diglyceride oil is usually designed for consumption off-heat (like in salad dressings or taken straight). It has a lower smoke point than standard oils.

Not exactly. The diglycerides used in processed foods (like bread) are usually emulsifiers to improve texture. The health supplements are purified 1,3-diglycerides specifically for metabolic effects.

Most studies show visible body fat reduction after 4 to 12 weeks of consistent use combined with a balanced diet.

Safety & Side Effects

Diglycerides are Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food additive. When taken as a supplement, side effects are generally mild and gastrointestinal.

Who should avoid it?

Individuals with allergies to soy (most supplements are soy-derived).
People with existing gallbladder issues, as fat digestion requires bile.
Those on blood-thinning medication (theoretical interaction with high doses).

Scientific References

[1]Taguchi, H., et al. (2000). 'Long-term intake of 1,3-diacylglycerol oil reduces body fat mass.' *Journal of Nutrition*.
[2]Maki, K. C., et al. (2003). 'Dietary 1,3-diacylglycerol oil reduces body fat and improves lipid profile.' *American Journal of Clinical Nutrition*.
[3]Flickinger, B. D., & Matsuo, N. (2003). 'Nutritional characteristics of DAG oil.' *Lipids*.