Which statement best describes how macronutrient concentration affects viscosity of an enteral formula?

Which statement best describes how macronutrient concentration affects viscosity of an enteral formula?

• A. Higher concentration generally increases viscosity
• B. Lower concentration decreases viscosity
• C. Viscosity is independent of concentration
• D. Only fiber affects viscosity

Answer: (D)

Viscosity of an enteral formula rises as the solid content per milliliter increases. When macronutrient concentration is higher, there are more proteins, carbohydrates, and fats packed into the same volume, which boosts internal friction and can promote gel-like interactions, making the liquid thicker. Soluble fiber can augment this thickening further, but they’re not the sole factor. Therefore, higher macronutrient concentration generally increases viscosity, with the exact change depending on the specific mix and any thickening agents used. Saying that only fiber affects viscosity overlooks the impact of protein and carbohydrate concentration and the overall solid content.

Viscosity of an enteral formula rises as the solid content per milliliter increases. When macronutrient concentration is higher, there are more proteins, carbohydrates, and fats packed into the same volume, which boosts internal friction and can promote gel-like interactions, making the liquid thicker. Soluble fiber can augment this thickening further, but they’re not the sole factor. Therefore, higher macronutrient concentration generally increases viscosity, with the exact change depending on the specific mix and any thickening agents used. Saying that only fiber affects viscosity overlooks the impact of protein and carbohydrate concentration and the overall solid content.