Randomised controlled trial of a synthetic triglyceride milk formula for preterm infants. Issue 3 (1st November 1997)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lucas, A; Quinlan, P; Abrams, S; Ryan, S; Meah, S; Lucas, P J
• Is Part Of: Archives of disease in childhood. Volume 77:Issue 3(1997)
• Page Start: F178
• Page End: F184
• Publication Date: 1997-11-01
• Subjects: synthetic triglyceride -- milk formula -- calcium absorption -- palmitate; Infants -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Newborn infants -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Fetus -- Diseases -- Periodicals; 618.920105
• DOI: 10.1136/fn.77.3.F178
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1359-2998

Abstract

Abstract : AIMS: To test whether use of infant formula containing synthetic structured triglycerides results in: (i) increased palmitate absorption; (ii) increased total fat absorption; (iii) reduction in calcium soap formation in the gut; and hence (iv) increased calcium absorption. METHODS: A randomised study was made of 24 infants comparing three formulas, one containing the synthetic fat Betapol with 74% of palmitate in the 2-position, which was substantially higher than in the two comparison diets (8.4% and 28%). The hypothesised outcomes were tested using balance studies, detailed chemical analysis of stool specimens and dual calcium isotope tracers ( 44 calcium orally and 46 calcium intravenously). RESULTS: Three of the four hypotheses were confirmed: use of a formula rich in 2-position palmitate (i) improved palmitate (16:0) and also (18:0) absorption; (ii) reduced the formation of insoluble calcium soaps in the stool; and (iii) improved calcium absorption, determined by the dual tracer technique from 42 (SE 3)% to 57 (7)%. CONCLUSION: Synthetic triglycerides that mimic the stereoisometric structure of those in breast milk may have a valuable role in the design of formulas used for preterm infants in neonatal intensive care units.