What is the feed with starter F-75?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), F-75 is a specialized therapeutic milk diet used for the initial stabilization of children suffering from Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM). The feed with starter F-75 is a crucial first step in nutritional rehabilitation, designed to address the fragile metabolic state of severely malnourished children before they can tolerate higher-energy formulas.

Quick Summary

This article explains that the F-75 therapeutic milk, or starter feed, is a carefully formulated, low-protein, low-sodium diet for the initial stabilization phase of treating Severe Acute Malnutrition in hospitalized children. {Link: Pharma International Group https://www.pharmaintgroup.com/en/product-formula-f75/} delves into its composition and purpose.

Key Points

• Stabilization Phase: F-75 is the starter feed for the initial phase of treating severe acute malnutrition in a hospital setting.

• Specific Formulation: It has a low-protein, low-sodium, high-carbohydrate formula to restore electrolyte balance.

• Not for Weight Gain: F-75 stabilizes the patient's system, not promote rapid weight gain.

• Safe Preparation is Crucial: Reconstitution needs strict hygiene using boiled, cooled water.

• Transition to F-100 or RUTF: After stabilization, children transition to F-100 or RUTF for catch-up growth.

• Medical Supervision Required: F-75 must be used under medical supervision.

• Global Health Standard: F-75 is a key component of the WHO's protocol for inpatient SAM management.

What is the Purpose of the F-75 Feed?

The primary purpose of the starter F-75 feed is to stabilize the child's metabolic functions during the critical first phase of treatment for Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM). This initial phase, also known as the stabilization phase, typically lasts for 2 to 7 days, depending on the child's response. Severely malnourished children often have compromised physiological states. Their bodies cannot properly process the high levels of protein, fat, and sodium found in regular foods or even standard infant formula.

The F-75 formula is designed to be lower in protein and sodium and rich in carbohydrates to prevent refeeding syndrome. It focuses on restoring the body's electrolyte and metabolic balance, providing essential vitamins and minerals in a controlled manner. It is an inpatient treatment, administered only under strict medical supervision.

The Nutritional Composition of F-75 Therapeutic Milk

The composition of F-75 milk provides approximately 75 kcal per 100 ml. The macronutrient breakdown is crucial:

• Energy: Approximately 75 kcal/100 ml.
• Carbohydrates: High content (around 65% of total energy).
• Protein: Low content (around 5% of total energy).
• Fats: Moderate content (around 32% of total energy).
• Electrolytes: Specific levels of potassium, magnesium, and other minerals are added.
• Micronutrients: Fortified with vitamins and minerals, intentionally low in iron.

Preparing the F-75 Feed for Administration

Preparing the F-75 feed requires extreme care and adherence to strict hygiene protocols. The preparation involves reconstituting a powder using boiled water cooled to around 70°C, accurately measuring powder and water, mixing thoroughly, and cooling to a safe temperature before feeding. Leftover feed should be discarded promptly.

Comparison of Therapeutic Feeds: F-75, F-100, and RUTF

F-75 is the initial step in a phased approach to treating SAM. A comparison of therapeutic feeds is available on {Link: Pharma International Group https://www.pharmaintgroup.com/en/product-formula-f75/}.

Conclusion

The feed with starter F-75 is essential in the WHO's protocol for managing Severe Acute Malnutrition. Its specific formulation stabilizes a child before transitioning to a higher-energy diet. This specialized therapeutic milk requires medical supervision.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary function of the starter F-75 feed?

The primary function is to stabilize the fragile metabolic state of a child with severe acute malnutrition during initial hospital treatment.

Why is F-75 not used for weight gain?

F-75 is low in protein and sodium, designed to correct metabolic imbalances rather than promote weight gain.

How is F-75 different from F-100?

F-75 is lower energy for stabilization, while F-100 is higher energy for the rehabilitation phase.

Is F-75 the same as Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF)?

No, F-75 is a liquid for inpatient stabilization; RUTF is a high-energy paste for outpatient rehabilitation.

Who should receive the F-75 feed?

Hospitalized children, typically 6 months or older, with Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) under medical supervision.

Why is hygiene so important when preparing F-75?

Hygiene is critical because severely malnourished children have weakened immune systems and are vulnerable to infection.

What happens after a child is stabilized on F-75?

They transition to higher-energy food like F-100 or RUTF for rehabilitation and catch-up growth.

Can F-75 be used for a well-nourished child?

No, it is a specialized medical diet for severely malnourished children only and requires health personnel direction.