The controversy of thin and thick porridges: does viscosity influence intake? - abstract

ABSTRACT

There is controversy concerning the best weaning foods for infants in developing countries with some promoting thick porridges while others claim viscosity reduction of thick porridges is necessary. We assessed the effects of viscosity and energy density on energy intake in fifteen children aged 7-15 months recovered from malnutrition. Three porridges were developed thin-low energy (51 kcal/100gm viscosity 280-480 cP) thick-high energy (kcal/100gm viscosity 3000-4000 cP); and amylase-treated - high energy (97 kcal/100 gm viscosity 280-480 cP). Using a cross-over design, each porridge was fed ad lib four times daily for four days by specially trained feeders. The mean daily intake in grams of the thin porridge was significantly higher than that of the amylase-treated or thick porridges. However, the mean energy intake of the thin porridge was significantly lower than that of the amylase-treated or thick porridges. The mean daily energy intakes of the amylase-treated and thick porridges were similar and matched WHO/FAO recommended requirements. Meal duration was significantly longer for the thick porridge, which was fed by cup and spoon, than for the amylase-treated or the thin porridges. Feeding a thick porridge with an energy density of 100 kcal/100 gm four times daily therefore satisfied the recommended daily energy requirements for infants and young children. The only adventure of reducing the viscosity of the thick porridge was the shorter time spent feeding (AU)