Abstract
Introduction: Restricting long-chain triglycerides (LCTs) and replacing them with medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) may improve the nutritional status of patients with lipid malabsorption. Homemade oral nutritional supplements (ONS) containing MCTs aim to increase energy intake and prevent weight loss. Objective: To develop an accessible, nutritionally adequate, and palatable homemade ONS with restricted LCTs and added MCTs, targeted at patients with diseases affecting lipid absorption. Methods: This prospective observational study adhered to the STROBE guidelines. Three formulations of energy- dense homemade ONS with low LCT content and added MCTs were developed, considering nutritional value, cost, and ingredient availability. Proximate composition was assessed through bromatological analysis. Sensory acceptability was evaluated in 30 assessors (19 healthy individuals and 11 patients with malabsorption syndromes) using a 0-10 hedonic scale. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA. As no significant differences were detected, post-hoc testing was not performed (p < 0.05 considered significant). Results: Energy density ranged from 1.56 to 1.74 kcal/mL, and protein content ranged from 5.1 to 5.9 g/100 mL. No significant differences were found between formulations regarding color (p=0.765), aroma (p=0.459), flavor (p=0.721), or overall impression (p=0.146). Conclusion: Homemade ONS are feasible alternatives that are affordable, palatable, and nutritionally appropriate for patients requiring LCT restriction, with potential to improve therapeutic adherence and nutritional status.