What is Vital AF Tube Feed and What Does It Contain?
Vital AF (Advanced Formula) 1.2 Cal is a specialized medical food manufactured by Abbott Nutrition, formulated for individuals who require tube feeding but experience gastrointestinal intolerance, malabsorption, or maldigestion. Unlike standard formulas that use whole proteins and fats, Vital AF contains partially broken-down or 'elemental' ingredients to facilitate easier digestion and absorption. The ingredients are meticulously chosen to provide complete, balanced nutrition while managing inflammation and supporting gut health. A comprehensive understanding of its components reveals the science behind its therapeutic benefits.
Core Ingredients in Vital AF
At the heart of the Vital AF formula are its macronutrient sources, which are tailored for patients with compromised GI function. These primary ingredients include:
- Water: The fundamental base of this ready-to-use liquid formula.
- Corn Maltodextrin: This carbohydrate source provides energy and is easily digested.
- Hydrolyzed Peptide-Based Proteins: The protein system is derived from both whey and sodium caseinate, but these proteins are hydrolyzed, meaning they are already broken down into smaller peptides. This process makes them much easier for a sensitive GI tract to absorb.
- Structured Lipid Blend (Marine Oil and Medium-Chain Triglycerides): The fat content is a combination of marine oil (from fish like anchovy, salmon, and tuna) and medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). MCTs are fats that are easily absorbed without bile, which is beneficial for patients with malabsorption issues. The marine oil provides beneficial omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) known for their anti-inflammatory properties.
- Short-Chain Fructooligosaccharides (scFOS): A prebiotic fiber added to stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria in the colon, which helps support overall gut health and tolerance.
Complete List of Micronutrients and Additives
In addition to its macronutrient profile, Vital AF is fortified with a wide array of vitamins and minerals to meet the daily nutritional requirements of patients. The formula also contains minor additives that contribute to its stability, flavor, and texture. Key vitamins and minerals include Vitamin A, Vitamin D3, Vitamin E, Vitamin K1, Vitamin C, Folic Acid, Vitamin B12, Zinc, Iron, Magnesium, and Calcium. The list of smaller constituents and additives is extensive and typically found in concentrations of less than 1%.
A partial list of these minor ingredients includes:
- Canola Oil and Soy Oil
- Natural and Artificial Flavor
- DATEM (Diacetyl Tartaric Acid Esters of Mono- and Diglycerides)
- Cellulose Gel and Cellulose Gum
- Potassium Chloride, Calcium Carbonate, and other mineral salts
- Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C)
- Choline Chloride
- Acesulfame Potassium and Sucralose (sweeteners)
- Carrageenan (stabilizer)
- L-Carnitine and Taurine
The Importance of Specialized Ingredients
The advanced formulation of Vital AF is designed to address the specific challenges faced by critically ill patients with impaired GI function. The inclusion of hydrolyzed protein and easily absorbed lipids, including anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil, distinguishes it from many standard formulas. The prebiotic fiber further supports a healthy gut microbiome, which is often disturbed in these patient populations. The combination of these specialized ingredients works synergistically to promote better patient tolerance and nutritional outcomes.
Comparing Vital AF 1.2 Cal to Standard Tube Feed
To illustrate the unique composition of Vital AF, the table below compares its key ingredient strategies with a typical, standard enteral formula.
| Feature | Vital AF 1.2 Cal | Standard Enteral Formula (e.g., Isocal) |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Type | Hydrolyzed, peptide-based (whey and casein) | Intact, whole proteins |
| Fat Source | Structured lipid (Marine Oil/MCTs) | Long-chain triglycerides (LCTs) from soy or canola oil |
| Inflammatory Support | Contains Omega-3s (EPA & DHA) from fish oil to modulate inflammation | Typically no specific anti-inflammatory lipids |
| Gastrointestinal Tolerance | Enhanced for malabsorption and GI intolerance due to pre-digested components | May cause GI distress in patients with compromised gut function |
| Prebiotic Fiber | Includes scFOS to support beneficial gut bacteria | May or may not contain fiber; often contains different types of fiber |
Conclusion
In summary, the ingredients in Vital AF tube feed are purposefully selected to provide therapeutic, elemental nutrition for patients with GI compromise and inflammation. Its core components—hydrolyzed proteins, structured lipid with marine oil, and prebiotic fiber—are all designed to enhance absorption and tolerance. The extensive list of vitamins and minerals ensures it provides complete, balanced nutrition, supporting patient health and recovery under medical supervision. Patients and caregivers can better understand the benefits and suitability of this specialized formula by recognizing the function of each key ingredient.
Medical Supervision
Remember that Vital AF is a medical food designed for specific medical conditions. It should always be used under the guidance and supervision of a qualified healthcare professional, who can determine the appropriate dosage and administration for individual patient needs. Vital AF 1.2 Cal Product Information
