New perspectives in neonatal nutrition

Modern techniques of cardiopulmonary life support, particularly for very low birthweight infants and those suffering from major surgical conditions, has presented the neonatologist with a completely new population of infants for whom continued survival and further normal physical and mental growth and development are critically dependent on adequate nutrition. The uncertainties surrounding the definition of 'adequacy' as well as the techniques and difficulties of its attainment and assessment are exposed. This paper examines desirable goals to be aimed for in the nutrition of the neonate in relation to genetic potential for growth, development and body composition. There is discussion of current research into the intermediary metabolism and utilisation of macronutrients and certain minerals for energy production and tissue growth and of methodology for determining body composition. The editor has also allowed a certain licence for speculation concerning future directions in neonatal nutrition.