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Serum ghrelin concentration, fasting time and feeding in infants

Francesco Savino1, Maria Francesca Fissore, Stefania Alfonsina Liguori

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Ospedale Infantile Regina Margherita, University of Turin, Italy. francesco.savino@unito.it

Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology & Metabolism : JPEM
|November 28, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Serum ghrelin levels in formula-fed (FF) infants correlate with longer fasting times, unlike breast-fed (BF) infants. This suggests early feeding type influences infant satiety and feeding behavior mechanisms.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Endocrinology
  • Infant Nutrition
  • Hormonal Regulation

Background:

  • Limited data exists on hormonal control of infant feeding in early life.
  • Understanding feeding behavior regulation is crucial for infant health.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the role of serum ghrelin in feeding behavior.
  • To compare ghrelin levels and feeding patterns in breast-fed (BF) versus formula-fed (FF) infants.

Main Methods:

  • Study included 50 healthy, term infants (1-6 months).
  • Serum ghrelin concentration measured using radioimmunoassay (RIA).
  • Fasting duration and meal frequency were recorded.

Main Results:

  • A significant positive correlation between serum ghrelin and fasting time was found in FF infants (r = 0.752; p <0.001).
  • No significant correlation was observed in BF infants (r = 0.345; p = 0.072).
  • FF infants exhibited higher ghrelin, longer fasting periods, and fewer meals compared to BF infants.

Conclusions:

  • Circulating ghrelin positively correlates with fasting duration in formula-fed infants.
  • Early feeding type may influence the mechanisms regulating infant satiety and feeding behavior.
  • Findings highlight potential differences in hormonal feeding control between BF and FF infants.
Abstract

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