What is F-75 Formula?
F-75 therapeutic formula is a specially formulated milk-based diet used in the initial, or stabilization, phase of treating severe acute malnutrition (SAM) in children. It is distinct from standard infant formula and other therapeutic foods, designed with a specific nutritional profile to address the immediate, life-threatening metabolic complications of SAM.
The Purpose of F-75 in SAM Treatment
The primary goal of using F-75 formula during the stabilization phase is not weight gain, but rather to:
- Correct electrolyte imbalances
- Treat or prevent hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
- Address dehydration carefully
- Initiate recovery of metabolic functions
Severely malnourished children have extremely fragile metabolisms. Introducing too much protein or energy too quickly can lead to a dangerous condition known as refeeding syndrome. F-75 is formulated with a controlled amount of protein and low sodium to minimize this risk while providing essential carbohydrates for energy.
Composition of F-75 Formula
F-75 formula, when prepared according to World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines, typically contains specific amounts of:
- Dried skimmed milk
- Sugar (often with additional carbohydrates like cereal flour in some preparations)
- Vegetable oil
- A specialized mineral-vitamin mix tailored for SAM
- Water
The precise ratio of these ingredients is crucial to achieve the target energy density of approximately 75 kcal per 100 ml and the specific nutrient balance required for stabilization.
The Importance of Professional Preparation and Administration
F-75 is a medical nutrition product and must be prepared and administered under the strict supervision of trained health personnel in a clinical setting, such as a hospital or therapeutic feeding center. The reasons for this include:
- Patient Vulnerability: Children with SAM are medically unstable and require close monitoring.
- Precise Formulation: Incorrect preparation, such as using the wrong ratios of ingredients or contaminated water, can be harmful or even fatal.
- Hygiene: Stringent hygiene protocols are essential during preparation to prevent bacterial contamination, to which severely malnourished children are highly susceptible.
- Clinical Assessment: The decision to start F-75, the amount given, and the transition to other therapeutic foods are based on ongoing clinical assessment of the child's condition.
Attempting to prepare or administer F-75 without proper medical training and supervision is dangerous and not recommended.
F-75 vs. F-100 and RUTF: A Comparison
F-75 is just one part of the nutritional management of SAM. It is followed by other therapeutic foods as the child's condition improves. A key distinction is between F-75 and F-100 formulas:
| Feature | F-75 Formula | F-100 Formula |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Stabilization phase of SAM treatment | Rehabilitation/catch-up growth phase of SAM treatment |
| Energy Density | ~75 kcal per 100 ml | ~100 kcal per 100 ml |
| Protein Content | Low (~0.9 g per 100 ml) | Higher (~2.9 g per 100 ml) |
| Nutrient Balance | Low protein, low sodium, high carbohydrate | Higher protein, fat, and calories |
| Primary Goal | Stabilize metabolism, correct imbalances | Promote rapid weight gain |
| Duration of Use | Typically 2-7 days | Follows F-75 phase, for weight gain |
Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Foods (RUTFs), such as Plumpy'Nut, are also used in SAM treatment, primarily during the rehabilitation phase for children without medical complications and who have appetite. RUTFs are energy-dense pastes that do not require adding water, reducing the risk of contamination in home settings.
Conclusion
F-75 formula plays a vital, life-saving role in the initial management of severe acute malnutrition by stabilizing a child's delicate metabolic state. Its specific low-protein, high-carbohydrate composition is crucial for correcting dangerous electrolyte imbalances and hypoglycemia without causing refeeding syndrome. Due to the medical fragility of the patients and the precise nature of its preparation, F-75 is a therapeutic diet that must be prepared and administered under the direct supervision of qualified health professionals in appropriate clinical settings. Understanding the purpose of F-75 within the overall treatment protocol for SAM is essential for effective nutritional care.
Disclaimer
Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about F-75 formula based on public health protocols. It is not intended as a guide for self-preparation or administration. F-75 formula is a medical product for severe malnutrition and must be prepared and administered by qualified medical professionals.
