The Purpose of the Stabilization Phase
Children with Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) are often in a critical state, with organ failure and impaired metabolic function. The initial 2-7 days of treatment focus on stabilization and restoring internal balance rather than weight gain. During this period, complications like infections, liver issues, and electrolyte disturbances are common. The metabolic pathways for processing protein and fat are significantly weakened.
Why F-75 Is Necessary
Giving severely malnourished children a normal diet or high-energy formula is risky and can cause refeeding syndrome, a dangerous shift in fluids and electrolytes. F-75's specific makeup helps prevent this by providing a controlled nutrient intake, allowing the body to recover gradually.
The Unique Formulation of F-75
F-75 is a specialized milk-based formula designed for the stabilization phase of SAM. Its composition provides key benefits:
- Low Protein and Fat: Only about 5% of energy from protein and 30% from fat, preventing stress on compromised organs.
- High Carbohydrate: Around 65% of energy from carbohydrates offers easily digestible energy.
- Precise Electrolyte Balance: Corrects dangerous electrolyte imbalances and has low sodium to avoid fluid overload.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Includes essential nutrients for repair, with low iron initially to prevent infection issues.
- Low Osmolarity: Helps reduce diarrhea and dehydration risks. Lactose-free or rice-based versions are available for persistent diarrhea.
F-75 vs. Rehabilitation Formulas: A Critical Difference
F-75 is for initial stabilization, unlike formulas like F-100 or RUTF used for later recovery and weight gain.
| Feature | F-75 (Stabilization) | F-100 or RUTF (Rehabilitation) |
|---|---|---|
| Energy Density | 75 kcal/100 ml | 100 kcal/100 ml (F-100) or higher kcal/g (RUTF) |
| Primary Goal | Metabolic stabilization, electrolyte balance | Catch-up growth, weight gain |
| Protein/Fat | Low to avoid stressing organs | Higher to support rapid tissue repair |
| Medical Supervision | Required in a hospital or clinic setting | Can be completed at home (RUTF) or in clinic |
| Iron Content | Very low to prevent complications | Higher to correct anemia |
The Clinical Benefit of F-75 in Action
F-75, used within WHO guidelines, is a systematic way to treat SAM. Health workers carefully introduce and monitor the formula. Benefits appear as the child stabilizes and heals, indicated by:
- Correcting Metabolic Dysfunction: Safe correction of abnormalities from prolonged malnutrition.
- Restoring Electrolyte Balance: Correcting deficiencies to prevent heart and organ issues.
- Improving Fluid Balance: Managing edema and supporting rehydration safely.
- Addressing Medical Complications: Improved ability to fight infections and other issues.
- Preparing for the Next Phase: Development of appetite and readiness for weight gain with F-100 or RUTF.
For more details on therapeutic food specifications, see the UNICEF supply catalogue.
Conclusion
The benefit of F-75 is its vital role in the initial, life-saving treatment of severe acute malnutrition. It's a medical intervention, not general nutrition, designed to stabilize critically ill children and fix life-threatening metabolic issues. By providing controlled nutrients, F-75 helps vital systems recover safely, preparing the child for rehabilitation and recovery. Its use under medical supervision following WHO guidelines is crucial in combating childhood malnutrition.
