What are the ingredients in Monogen?
Monogen is a nutritionally complete, powdered medical food by Nutricia, designed for managing conditions requiring high MCT intake and low LCT intake, particularly fat malabsorption disorders. It provides a balance of macronutrients, vitamins, and minerals suitable for infants, children, and adults under medical guidance.
Macronutrient Composition
Monogen's macronutrient profile is tailored for individuals with impaired fat digestion and absorption:
- Carbohydrates: Provides easily digestible energy primarily from maltodextrin and glucose syrup.
- Proteins: A blend of skimmed cow's milk, whey protein, and calcium caseinate provides essential amino acids.
- Fats: Notably high in MCTs (over 84% of total fat) derived from coconut and/or palm oil, with a low amount of LCTs from walnut and high oleic sunflower oil. It also includes DHA and ARA from specialized oils.
Vitamin and Mineral Profile
Monogen includes a full spectrum of essential vitamins and minerals to prevent deficiencies associated with fat malabsorption:
- Vitamins: Contains all fat-soluble (A, D, E, K) and water-soluble (C, B vitamins) vitamins, with sources like L-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) and Retinyl Acetate (Vitamin A).
- Minerals and Trace Elements: Provides essential elements including calcium, iron, zinc, and selenium, among others, from sources like potassium chloride and ferrous sulfate.
Other Functional Ingredients
Additional components in Monogen support metabolic processes:
- Includes choline, inositol, taurine, L-carnitine, and essential amino acids like L-valine and L-tryptophan, supporting functions from cell structure to energy production.
Monogen vs. Standard Infant Formula Fat Composition
The table below illustrates the key differences in fat composition between Monogen and standard formulas:
| Feature | Monogen | Standard LCT-based Infant Formula |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Fat Source | Medium-Chain Triglycerides (MCTs) | Long-Chain Triglycerides (LCTs) from various vegetable oils |
| Fat Digestion | Absorbed directly into the bloodstream without requiring bile salts | Requires bile salts and pancreatic enzymes for absorption |
| Relative Fat Content | Approximately 84% of fat is from MCTs | Nearly all fat is from LCTs |
| Use Case | Dietary management of fat malabsorption disorders | General nutritional support for healthy infants |
| DHA/ARA Inclusion | Present (from C. cohnii and M. alpina oils) | May or may not contain supplemented DHA/ARA |
| Medical Supervision | Required for use | Not required |
Who Needs Monogen's Unique Ingredients?
Monogen's specific composition benefits individuals with conditions where LCTs are poorly digested or transported. The high MCT content offers an easily absorbed energy source.
Conditions managed with Monogen include:
- Long-chain fatty acid oxidation defects (LCFAODs).
- Chylothorax and Chylous Ascites.
- Intestinal Lymphangiectasia.
- Type I Hyperlipoproteinemia.
- Intractable Malabsorption with Steatorrhea.
- Short Bowel Syndrome.
Important Note: Monogen is a food for special medical purposes and must be used under strict medical supervision. Consult a healthcare professional for appropriate use and dosage.
Conclusion
Monogen's ingredients are specifically chosen to provide complete nutrition for patients with fat malabsorption disorders. Its high MCT, low LCT profile makes it distinct from standard formulas and a vital tool for managing complex conditions under medical supervision.
What are the ingredients in Monogen?
- Macronutrients: Monogen contains Maltodextrin, skimmed cow's milk, whey protein, calcium caseinate, MCT-rich vegetable oils, and small amounts of LCT oils.
- MCT and LCT Content: Over 84% of the fat content is from MCTs.
- Essential Fatty Acids: Includes DHA and ARA.
- Vitamins: Fortified with a complete profile of essential fat-soluble and water-soluble vitamins.
- Minerals: Contains a comprehensive blend of minerals and trace elements.
- Medical Purpose: Intended for managing fat malabsorption under medical supervision.
