Disponibilidade de ferro, digestibilidade de proteína e teor de β-caroteno em formulados alternativos de baixo custo para alimentação enteral de idosos

Abstract

The aim of this study was to develop alternative formulas for elderly enteral feeding using conventional foods from food staples distributed in the city of Piracicaba-SP. The foods used in the formulas were: corn meal, soybean oil, rice, beans, pasta, sardine, powder milk, corn starch, eggs, textured soy protein, cabbage, and carrot. Chemical analyses (centesimal composition, protein digestibility, iron determination, iron dialyses in vitro, β-carotene determination, anti-nutritional factors - tannins, and phytate) and cost analyses were carried out. The results were analyzed statistically using the Tukey test and regression. Liquid formulas presented better nutritional and economical viability. According to the elderly clinical needs, two alternatives are suggested among the liquid formulas tested. Formula F3 for its iron availability, quantity of β-carotene, and digestibility and formula F4 for is for the total calorie distribution of macronutrients as well as for having a higher number of calories. The formulas achieved 20% adequacy when two servings of 250 mL/day (powder or liquid) were ingested.