ey Goals of Nutritional Therapy
Prevent fasting-induced hypoglycemia
Avoid reliance on long-chain fat metabolism
Provide safe alternative energy sources
Support normal growth and physical activity
Reduce the risk of rhabdomyolysis & metabolic decompensation
1. Frequent Meals & Avoiding Fasting
People with LCAD cannot efficiently use fat stores during fasting, so the blood sugar can drop quickly.
Recommendations
Eat regular meals and snacks every 2–3 hours during the day.
Never skip meals.
Infants may need night feeds, or continuous overnight feeding.
During illness, consider higher-carb intake or emergency regimen to prevent catabolism.
2. High-Carbohydrate, Moderate-Protein Diet
Why?
Carbohydrates provide the safest and easiest fuel source.
Protein supports growth and prevents muscle breakdown.
Examples
Rice, yam, potatoes, pasta, bread
Cereals, oats, porridge
Fruits (banana, mango, apple)
Moderate protein: fish, eggs, chicken, beans
Avoid high-fat options unless prescribed.
- *3. Low Long-Chain Fat Diet
People with LCAD cannot process long-chain fatty acids efficiently.
Foods to reduce or avoid
Fatty meats (pork, mutton, skin-on chicken)
Full-fat milk, cheese, butter
Creamy soups/sauces
Deep-fried foods
Pastries high in butter/oils
Palm oil, groundnut oil (use minimal amounts)
4. Medium-Chain Triglyceride (MCT) Supplementation
MCT oil provides rapid, usable energy because it bypasses the blocked LCAD pathway.
Possible forms:
MCT oil mixed into foods
Specialized medical formulas (MCT-based)
Benefits
Prevents muscle breakdown
Supports exercise tolerance
Provides safe energy during fasting or illness
Note: Must be used under the guidance of a metabolic specialist.
5. Essential Fatty Acids Supplementation
Because long-chain fats are restricted, patients may miss key fatty acids like omega-3 and omega-6.
Sources (controlled amounts):
Fortified formulas
Prescribed DHA/EPA supplements
6. Emergency (“Sick Day”) Nutrition Plan
During infections, vomiting, or surgery:
Increase carbohydrate intake (glucose drinks, oral rehydration, juices)
Avoid long fasting
Hospital glucose drip may be needed
Stop physical exertion completely
7. Exercise Guidance
Physical activity is allowed when well-fed, but:
Avoid prolonged, strenuous exercise
Carbohydrate-rich snack before activity
Stop immediately if muscle pain or fatigue occurs
Sample Daily LCAD-Friendly Meal Plan
Breakfast
Oats + banana + small amount of low-fat milk
Bread with jam
Snack
Fruit juice or biscuits
Lunch
Rice with lean chicken
Steamed vegetables (no added oil)
Snack
Crackers + fruit
Dinner
Pasta with tomato sauce
Beans or grilled fish (no frying)
Optional
Doctor-prescribed MCT added in small measured amounts to meals.
Conclusion
Nutritional management of LCAD focuses on:
High carbs, controlled fats
Avoiding fasting
Safe fat replacement with MCT
Protection during illness
Maintaining stable energy levels
With consistent dietary planning, individuals with LCAD can live healthy, active lives while minimizing metabolic risks.