Abstract
Recently published data indicate that weight and length gain of exclusively breast-fed infants is lower than in formula fed-infants at least beyond 2 months of age. We studied the composition of weight gain (gain fat-free-mass + fat) in a homogeneous group of exclusively breast- or formula fed infants.
Methods: Weight, length and body composition (TOBECR) of male term breast- (n=8) and formula-fed (EnfalacR 1,5 g protein/dl; 67 kcal/dl; n=8) were measured at 30, 61, 91 and 122 (± 2) days of age.
Results: Weight, length and body composition did not differ at 30 days of age. Weight and length gain tended to be higher in the formula fed-infants between 1-4 Mo and during each month of observation (Anova), but differences did not reach statistical significance. Daily gain in fat-free-mass (g/day; x + SD) was significantly higher in the formula fed-infants (13,8 ± 2,3 vs 10,3 ± 2,4; p < 0,05; Anova) between 1-4 Mo, but no differences in dally fat gain (14,4 ± 2,7 vs 14,1 ± 4,6) were observed.
Conclusion: The data indicate that during the period when exclusive breastfeeding is recommended, formula fed infants deviate in their composition of weight gain from breast-fed infants. It is speculated that higher protein intake of formula-fed infants results in higher gain of fat-free-mass.
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Huemer, C., Haschke, F., Pietschnig, B. et al. HIGHER GAIN OF FAT-FREE-MASS IN FORMULA- THAN IN BREAST-FED INFANTS BETWEEN 1–4 MONTHS OF AGE. Pediatr Res 32, 626 (1992). https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-199211000-00129
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-199211000-00129