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Fatty acids in substitute formulas for cow's milk allergy
M Kaila1, M K Salo, E Isolauri
1Department of Pediatrics, Medical School, University of Tampere, Finland.
Allergy
|April 9, 1999
Summary
Infant formulas generally meet fat intake recommendations, but fatty acid profiles, particularly the linoleic to alpha-linolenic acid ratio, vary. Further research is needed on their impact on allergic conditions.
Area of Science:
- Nutrition Science
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
Background:
- Dietary fats' role in food allergies is under investigation due to inflammatory mediators.
- Fatty acid composition of infant formulas is crucial for infant nutrition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze and describe the fatty acid composition of various commercially available infant formulas.
- To compare these compositions with human milk and established nutritional recommendations.
Main Methods:
- Gas chromatography was used to analyze fatty acid profiles.
- Nine different infant formulas (soy, hydrolyzed casein/whey, amino-acid-based) and human milk were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Most formulas met fat and linoleic acid energy recommendations.
- The linoleic to alpha-linolenic acid ratio exceeded recommendations in several formulas.
- Fatty acid quantities were generally within the breast milk range.
Conclusions:
- Analyzed infant formulas largely comply with general fat intake guidelines.
- The fatty acid profiles, especially the linoleic/alpha-linolenic acid ratio, show variability.
- The pro- or anti-inflammatory effects of these compositions in allergic conditions require further investigation.