*2.3. Procedure*

Once the final population sample was obtained, the patients received further information on the study, as well as the set objectives and the tests and analyses that would be carried out. They were also provided with instructions to not change the prescribed diet for each case (depending on whether they were in the control group or intervention group), as well as to take the capsules on a daily basis at the scheduled times over the 4-month duration of the intervention. In order to verify the patients complied with the treatment, members of the team made weekly telephone calls (on Monday mornings) to each and every patient. They were asked about any doubts or incidences regarding the diet, with the aim of ensuring the caloric intake was followed, or whether they had had any issue with the capsules (such as an intolerance or side effect). These calls were carried out over the 4 months of the duration of the intervention. No general issues or problems with the diet or capsules were registered.
