What is PediaSure Enteral Formula?
PediaSure enteral formula is a medical-grade, nutrient-dense liquid specially formulated to provide complete, balanced nutrition for children between the ages of 1 and 13 who receive their feeding through an enteral, or tube feeding, device. Unlike the standard PediaSure drinks available for oral supplementation, the enteral version is specifically engineered for optimal tolerance and digestion when administered directly into the gastrointestinal tract. It can serve as a child's sole source of nutrition or as a supplement to fill nutritional gaps, depending on the child's needs and a doctor's recommendation. These formulas are designed to support catch-up growth in children who are undernourished due to illness, increased nutrient needs, or a poor appetite.
Key Ingredients and Nutritional Profile
PediaSure enteral formula is a carefully balanced blend of macronutrients (protein, fat, and carbohydrates), vitamins, and minerals. The specific formulation varies slightly between products, but key components typically include:
- Protein: Often derived from milk protein concentrate and soy protein isolate, providing a balanced amino acid profile to support tissue growth and repair. Specific formulas, like PediaSure Peptide, contain hydrolyzed proteins for easier digestion and absorption.
- Carbohydrates: The primary carbohydrate source is corn maltodextrin, which is easier for tube-fed children to digest than the higher sugar content found in some oral versions.
- Fats: A blend of vegetable oils, including medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), high oleic safflower, and soy oils, provides an easily absorbed energy source.
- Micronutrients: Provides 100% or more of the Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) for protein and 25 essential vitamins and minerals within specific volumes, ensuring comprehensive nutritional support.
- Specialty Additions: Some versions, like those with fiber, contain prebiotics (e.g., short-chain fructooligosaccharides) to support digestive tract health. Omega-3 DHA and lutein are also included to support brain and eye development.
Types of PediaSure Enteral Formulas
Abbott Nutrition offers several PediaSure products tailored for tube feeding, each with a specific nutritional profile:
- PediaSure Enteral Formula 1.0 Cal: A standard, complete formula providing 1.0 calorie per milliliter for children with normal caloric needs.
- PediaSure Enteral Formula 1.0 Cal with Fiber: Includes a fiber blend to support digestive regularity and gut health.
- PediaSure Enteral 1.5 Cal: A higher caloric-density formula (1.5 calories per milliliter) for children who have higher energy needs or require fluid restrictions.
- PediaSure Peptide 1 Cal: Contains 100% hydrolyzed protein and MCTs, designed for children with malabsorption, maldigestion, or other complex gastrointestinal conditions.
Administration and Precautions
PediaSure enteral formula is administered via a feeding tube, such as a nasogastric (NG) or gastrostomy (G) tube. A healthcare provider will determine the appropriate flow rate, volume, and feeding schedule based on the child's age, nutritional requirements, and health status. The formula can be given at room temperature or refrigerated, following the physician's instructions.
Important precautions to remember include:
- Use only under medical supervision.
- Not for use in children with galactosemia.
- Not for intravenous (IV) use.
- Proper hygiene, handling, and storage procedures are essential to avoid contamination.
PediaSure Oral vs. Enteral: What's the Difference?
| Feature | PediaSure Oral (e.g., Grow & Gain) | PediaSure Enteral | Focus | Palatability and taste | Gastrointestinal tolerance for tube feeding | Carbohydrate Source | Higher concentration of sugars for taste | Primarily corn maltodextrin for easier digestion | Administration | Supplemental drink for children who are picky eaters or have nutritional gaps | Sole source or supplemental nutrition via feeding tube | Use Case | Filling minor nutritional gaps in otherwise healthy children | Meeting comprehensive nutritional needs in medically fragile children | Consistency | Formulated for appealing flavor and texture | Formulated for easy flow through a feeding tube |
How PediaSure Enteral Formula Supports Growth and Health
Providing complete nutrition is crucial for a child's development, especially for those with health challenges. PediaSure enteral formula delivers essential nutrients that can significantly impact a child's well-being.
Supporting Weight Gain and Bone Growth
For children with failure to thrive or malnutrition, achieving and maintaining a healthy weight is a primary goal. The balanced macronutrient profile and calorie density of PediaSure enteral formula provide the necessary energy for catch-up growth. Specific nutrients like Vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus are included to support the development of strong bones, a vital part of a child's overall growth.
Boosting Immune Function
The immune system of an unwell child is often compromised. PediaSure enteral formula is fortified with a blend of antioxidants, including vitamins C, E, and selenium, which help support immune function. This can help a child's body better respond to illness, potentially leading to fewer sick days and a healthier recovery.
Aiding Brain and Eye Development
Critical to cognitive development and vision, DHA omega-3 fatty acids are a key component of PediaSure enteral formulas. By providing this and other supportive nutrients, the formula helps ensure the brain and eyes receive the building blocks they need, especially important during periods of rapid growth.
Conclusion
PediaSure enteral formula is a scientifically developed medical food that plays a vital role in providing complete and balanced nutrition for children aged 1 to 13 who require tube feeding. It differs from the oral-supplement version in its formulation, being specifically optimized for tolerance and digestion through the enteral route. By supplying essential macronutrients, vitamins, and minerals, these formulas are proven to support catch-up growth, immune function, and overall development in children facing nutritional deficits. Used under medical supervision, PediaSure enteral is a reliable and effective tool for addressing the complex dietary needs of pediatric patients. For clinical guidance and a deeper understanding of enteral nutrition principles, healthcare professionals can reference resources from organizations like the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (ASPEN).
