Fat as an energy supplement for preterm infants

Area of Science:

• Nutritional Science
• Pediatric Gastroenterology

Background:

• Preterm infants require optimal nutrition for growth.
• Dietary fat is a crucial energy source, but its absorption can be a challenge in preterm infants.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effect of increased dietary fat in formula on fat absorption and weight gain in healthy preterm infants.

Main Methods:

• Fifteen healthy preterm infants were fed two types of formula for one week each.
• Formulas varied in fat content: standard (6g/kg) and high-energy (10g/kg).
• Measurements included fat absorption markers (chylomicron levels) and weight gain rates.

Main Results:

• High-energy formula with increased dietary fat led to significantly higher chylomicron levels, indicating improved fat absorption.
• No steatorrhoea or metabolic disturbances were observed.
• Infants on the high-energy formula showed a significantly higher rate of weight gain (25.9 g/24h vs 20.3 g/24h).

Conclusions:

• Supplementing preterm infant formula with complex dietary fat enhances fat absorption and promotes greater weight gain.
• High-energy formulas are potentially valuable for ensuring adequate nutrition and growth in preterm infants.