The Purpose Behind the Composition
F-75 is not a standard nutritional drink but a carefully formulated therapeutic diet following World Health Organization (WHO) protocols. Its composition is tailored to the specific and delicate needs of a severely malnourished child's body during the first phase of treatment. At this stage, the child's body is too fragile to process large amounts of protein, fat, and sodium. F-75 provides the necessary carbohydrates and micronutrients to stabilize metabolic functions, restore electrolyte balance, and support rehydration, all under close medical supervision.
The Core Ingredients of F-75
To understand what is F-75 made of, we must look at its component parts, which are combined into a powdered mix reconstituted with water.
- Milk Powder: Provides a base of dairy protein and other nutrients. Manufacturers often use skimmed milk powder for a lower protein content appropriate for the stabilization phase.
- Refined Vegetable Oil: Serves as a source of energy and fat, contributing to the overall calorie density. The type of vegetable oil may vary depending on the local supply and production standards.
- Sugar (Saccharose): Acts as a rapidly available source of carbohydrates and energy. It helps to increase the calorie density of the formula.
- Maltodextrin: A complex carbohydrate that provides sustained energy to the malnourished patient.
- Emulsifier (e.g., Lecithin): Helps to bind the ingredients together, ensuring a smooth and consistent mixture when reconstituted with water.
- Vitamin and Mineral Premix: A crucial element containing a specifically balanced blend of micronutrients to correct deficiencies without overwhelming the child's system with excess iron.
Critical Micronutrients in F-75
F-75 is fortified with a specific mix of vitamins and minerals essential for a child in a fragile state. The composition is carefully balanced to restore function without causing refeeding syndrome. Key micronutrients included are:
- Vitamins: A, D3, E, K, C, B1, B2, B6, B12, folic acid, niacin, pantothenic acid, and biotin.
- Minerals: A low level of sodium, and specific amounts of potassium, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, zinc, copper, selenium, and iodine. The low iron content is vital during this phase.
F-75 vs. F-100: A Comparison of Therapeutic Milks
Both F-75 and F-100 are therapeutic milks used to treat severe acute malnutrition, but they are used in different phases of recovery.
| Feature | F-75 | F-100 |
|---|---|---|
| Energy Density | ~75 kcal per 100 ml | ~100 kcal per 100 ml |
| Protein Content | Lower (around 0.9 g per 100 ml) | Higher (around 2.9 g per 100 ml) |
| Primary Goal | Stabilization of the child's metabolic system | Catch-up growth and weight gain |
| Treatment Phase | Phase 1: Initial treatment in a hospital or clinic | Phase 2: Rehabilitation after stabilization |
| Protein and Fat Level | Low in protein and fat | Higher in protein and fat |
| Duration of Use | Typically 2-7 days, until stabilized | Longer duration, until full recovery |
The Critical Role of F-75 in the Stabilization Phase
The initial phase of SAM treatment is critical and perilous due to the child's severely compromised bodily functions. Refeeding too quickly or with high-protein foods can lead to complications such as refeeding syndrome, which can be fatal. F-75's low protein, low sodium, and low osmolarity formulation is key to preventing these dangerous effects. It provides just enough energy and essential minerals to slowly and safely restore metabolic balance, laying the groundwork for the more aggressive nutritional recovery phase that follows.
Preparation and Usage Protocols
Preparation of F-75 must be done with great care to ensure the correct nutritional concentration and prevent contamination. The powdered formula is mixed with a precise amount of boiled and cooled water. Medical supervision is mandatory, as this is a hospital-based treatment. Instructions for preparation are always provided on the packaging and must be followed exactly. UNICEF and other aid organizations provide strict guidelines to ensure the safety and efficacy of the formula. For more details, consult the latest World Health Organization guidelines on the management of severe acute malnutrition.
Conclusion
In summary, the ingredients of F-75—specifically milk powder, refined vegetable oil, sugar, maltodextrin, and a fortified vitamin-mineral mix—are carefully selected to meet the critical, low-nutrient requirements of the initial stabilization phase for children with severe acute malnutrition. It is a precise medical formulation, not a standard dietary supplement, designed to be administered under medical supervision. Its deliberate composition makes it an essential tool in preventing further complications and paving the way for full nutritional recovery.
