PediaSure is a well-known nutritional supplement created to support the growth and development of children aged 2 to 13 years who may have insufficient dietary intake. Its formulation is a deliberate combination of protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. While the exact ingredient list can vary slightly across different product lines (e.g., Grow & Gain, Fiber, Organic) and regional variations, the core components remain consistent.
The Core Macronutrients in PediaSure
Protein for Growth and Repair
Protein is a cornerstone of PediaSure's formulation, critical for muscle building, tissue repair, and overall growth. A key feature is its 'triple protein complex,' which often combines high-quality proteins from multiple sources to provide a balanced amino acid profile.
- Milk Protein Concentrate: A highly digestible protein source derived from milk.
- Soy Protein Isolate: A plant-based protein source, providing additional essential amino acids.
- Whey Protein Concentrate: A fast-absorbing protein that aids in muscle synthesis.
This blend ensures a sustained release of amino acids to support a child's active body throughout the day.
Carbohydrates for Energy
Carbohydrates are the primary energy source in PediaSure, fueling a child's busy days of play and learning. The main carbohydrate sources include:
- Corn Maltodextrin: A complex carbohydrate that provides a steady release of energy.
- Sugar (Sucrose/Corn Syrup): A simple carbohydrate that contributes to the product's sweet taste and provides quick energy.
- Hydrolyzed Corn Starch: Another form of carbohydrate that is easily digested and absorbed.
For products like PediaSure with Fiber, additional carbohydrate sources such as short-chain fructooligosaccharides (scFOS) and soy fiber are added to support digestive health.
Fats for Brain and Eye Development
Fats are crucial for brain development and vitamin absorption. PediaSure includes a blend of vegetable oils to provide a balanced profile of fatty acids.
- Blend of Vegetable Oils: Typically includes high oleic sunflower, soy, and canola oils.
- Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs): An easily absorbed and metabolized fat source that provides a quick energy boost.
- DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid): Sourced from organisms like Schizochytrium sp. oil, DHA is a crucial omega-3 fatty acid for brain and eye development.
Fortification with Vitamins and Minerals
A comprehensive array of vitamins and minerals is included to fill potential nutritional gaps in a child's diet. This list typically exceeds 25 essential nutrients, with quantities designed to meet or exceed the Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) for children.
Vitamins:
- Immune Support: Vitamins C and E, and Selenium.
- Bone Health: Vitamins D and K.
- Energy and Metabolism: A full range of B vitamins (Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, B6, B12).
- Vision and Growth: Vitamin A.
Minerals:
- Bone Density: Calcium, Phosphorus, and Magnesium.
- Blood and Development: Iron, Zinc, and Copper.
- Thyroid Function: Iodine.
- Cell Function: Potassium, Sodium, and Chloride.
Specialized Ingredients
Beyond the fundamental macronutrients and micronutrients, PediaSure incorporates specific functional ingredients to boost overall health:
- Prebiotics (Fructooligosaccharides - FOS): These fibers feed beneficial gut bacteria, promoting a healthy digestive system and supporting immune function.
- Probiotics (Lactobacillus acidophilus): Some formulations, like PediaSure Organic, include probiotics, which are live bacteria that support gut and immune health.
- Arginine: An amino acid included in some versions (like PediaSure 10+) to support bone health.
- Antioxidants: Ingredients like ascorbyl palmitate and mixed tocopherols help protect cells from damage.
PediaSure Product Ingredient Comparison
| Ingredient Category | Standard PediaSure | PediaSure with Fiber | PediaSure Organic Powder |
|---|---|---|---|
| Key Carbohydrate Source | Corn Maltodextrin, Sugar | Corn Maltodextrin, Sugar, scFOS, Soy Fiber | Organic Maltodextrin, Organic Sucrose, Organic FOS |
| Dietary Fiber Content | <1g per serving | ~3g per serving (includes scFOS) | Organic Fructooligosaccharides |
| Protein Blend | Milk Protein Concentrate, Soy Protein Isolate | Milk Protein Concentrate, Soy Protein Isolate, Soy Fiber | Organic Micellar Casein, Organic Whey Protein Concentrate, Organic Soy Protein Isolate |
| Added Immunity Support | Vitamins A, C, E, Selenium | Vitamins A, C, E, Selenium, plus fiber | Synbiotic blend (prebiotic + probiotic), Vitamins A, C, D, Zinc |
| DHA Source | Tuna Oil or Schizochytrium sp. Oil | Tuna Oil or Schizochytrium sp. Oil | C. cohnii oil |
| Dairy Sourcing | Non-rbST-treated cows | Non-rbST-treated cows | Certified Organic Dairy |
Conclusion
The composition of PediaSure is a carefully designed blend of macronutrients, an extensive vitamin-mineral profile, and specialized functional ingredients. The product's main goal is to provide balanced nutrition for children who may not be meeting their dietary needs through food alone. From the multi-source protein complex for muscle growth to the inclusion of DHA for brain development and prebiotics for gut health, the ingredients collectively address key areas of a child's development. By understanding what are the ingredients for PediaSure, parents can make an informed decision about whether this supplement is a suitable part of their child's nutritional plan.
For more information on nutritional requirements for children, you can refer to guidance from health organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
