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Acute gastroenteritis in infants under 6 months old
1Regional Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Monsall Hospital, Newton Heath, Manchester.
Archives of Disease in Childhood
|September 1, 1990
Summary
For infants with gastroenteritis, immediate feeding with full-strength milk after rehydration is effective. Lactose-free formula can help manage lactose intolerance recurrence in babies.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Gastroenterology
- Nutrition
Background:
- Gastroenteritis is a common cause of hospital admission in infants.
- Lactose intolerance can complicate recovery from gastroenteritis.
- Feeding strategies post-rehydration require clear guidelines.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare gradual versus abrupt refeeding in infants with gastroenteritis.
- To assess the impact of refeeding methods on lactose intolerance recurrence.
- To evaluate effects on infant weight and hospital stay.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 62 infants under 6 months with gastroenteritis.
- Comparison of gradual refeeding versus abrupt refeeding post-rehydration.
- Monitoring for diarrhea recurrence, weight changes, and hospital duration.
Main Results:
- No significant difference in lactose intolerance recurrence between groups.
- 42% of infants experienced diarrhea recurrence, all responding to lactose-free formula.
- No difference in weight gain or hospital stay duration observed.
Conclusions:
- Well-nourished infants with mild to moderate gastroenteritis can be fed immediately with full-strength milk after rehydration.
- Lactose-free soya-based formula is an effective alternative for managing lactose intolerance.
- Immediate feeding strategies simplify infant care post-gastroenteritis.