The New Energy Equation

Rethinking how we fuel the mind 

Founder & Chief Nutritionist, Sarah Wragge Wellness

There was a time when energy was measured in output—how much we could do, how long we could sustain it. Today, the conversation is shifting toward something more refined: mental clarity. 

In my work, I see more and more clients beginning to connect how they feel cognitively—focus, memory, overall clarity—with what’s happening metabolically in the body. This aligns with a growing body of research exploring the relationship between insulin resistance and long-term brain health, particularly as it relates to aging and cognitive decline. 

At the center of this conversation is a simple but powerful idea: the brain is capable of using more than one source of fuel. 

Under typical conditions, the brain relies primarily on glucose. However, during periods of reduced carbohydrate availability—such as fasting, exercise, or certain dietary patterns—the body begins to produce ketones. These compounds are created in the liver through the breakdown of fats and can serve as an alternative energy source. 

One of the reasons ketones are so interesting is that they readily cross the blood–brain barrier, allowing them to be used by brain cells for energy. This metabolic flexibility is an area of increasing interest, particularly when we look at individuals who may not be using glucose as efficiently. 

In practice, this is where medium-chain triglycerides, or MCTs, often come into the conversation. Found in higher concentrations in coconut oil and palm kernel oil, MCTs are absorbed and metabolized more quickly than other fats, making them a readily available source for ketone production. 

While research into MCTs and cognitive performance is still evolving, some studies have explored their potential to support aspects of memory and mental processing, particularly in certain populations. In clinical settings, they are often used as part of a broader strategy focused on metabolic support. 

For those looking to incorporate them more simply, small additions—like coconut oil or MCT oil in coffee or a morning smoothie—can be an easy place to start. As with any nutritional approach, responses are individual, and consistency tends to matter more than intensity. 

There is no single solution when it comes to supporting brain health. Sleep, movement, and overall nutrition all play essential roles. But what continues to stand out is how foundational metabolic health is to how we think, feel, and function each day. 

In that sense, energy is no longer just something we push for—it’s something we can begin to understand and support more intentionally. 

And often, that begins with how we choose to fuel the body—and the mind. 

sarahwragge.com