What is vital 1.2 calories? Understanding the specialized nutritional formula

According to Abbott Nutrition, the manufacturer, Vital AF 1.2 Cal is a peptide-based therapeutic nutrition specifically designed for patients with impaired GI function or intolerance. This medical formula delivers 1.2 calories per milliliter, providing complete, balanced nutrition for those who cannot tolerate standard formulas.

Quick Summary

Vital 1.2 is a specialized, calorically dense nutritional formula intended for the medical management of patients with gastrointestinal issues, inflammation, or malabsorption. It is a peptide-based formula that offers easy absorption, immune-modulating properties from fish oil, and high protein content for recovery. It is suitable for both oral and tube feeding under medical supervision.

Key Points

• Targeted Therapeutic Nutrition: Vital AF 1.2 Cal is a specialized medical formula, not a standard supplement, designed for patients with impaired GI function.

• Easily Digested Peptide Protein: The formula uses pre-digested (hydrolyzed) peptides for a protein source, promoting better absorption and reducing digestive distress.

• Manages Inflammation: It contains omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) from fish oil to help modulate inflammatory responses and support immune function.

• Supports Gut Health: Prebiotic fiber (scFOS) is included to stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria, which enhances GI tolerance.

• Complete and Concentrated: With 1.2 Calories per mL, it provides comprehensive, balanced nutrition in a calorically dense format, ideal for patients with high needs or fluid restrictions.

• Dual Administration: It is suitable for both oral consumption and tube feeding, offering flexibility for different patient needs.

Demystifying Vital AF 1.2 Cal

Vital AF 1.2 Cal is a therapeutic nutritional supplement, distinct from general dietary products. The '1.2 calories' indicates its caloric density: 1.2 Calories per milliliter (Cal/mL). This concentration is beneficial for patients needing significant nutritional support due to malnutrition, elevated metabolic demands, or limitations on fluid intake. Its key differentiator is the specialized formulation featuring a hydrolyzed peptide-based protein system. Unlike standard formulas with whole proteins, this system is pre-digested, making it easier for compromised gastrointestinal (GI) tracts to absorb and reducing the likelihood of digestive discomfort.

Core Components and Functionality

The formula contains several key ingredients providing targeted support:

• Hydrolyzed Peptide-Based Protein: Proteins are broken down into smaller peptides for easier absorption in a compromised gut.
• Structured Lipid with Omega-3s: Includes fish oil, providing EPA and DHA to help manage inflammation and support immune function.
• Prebiotic Fiber: Contains NutraFlora scFOS to foster beneficial gut bacteria for improved tolerance and gut health.
• Complete Vitamin and Mineral Profile: Offers essential vitamins and minerals, with elevated antioxidants (Vitamins C, E, selenium) and fortified Vitamin D for critical illness.

Who Needs Vital AF 1.2 Cal?

This medical food is for patients with specific nutritional challenges and requires healthcare professional supervision. It is primarily indicated for those with:

• Malabsorption or Maldigestion: Conditions like IBD, Crohn's, or short bowel syndrome where nutrient absorption is impaired.
• Gastrointestinal Intolerance: For patients who react poorly to standard whole protein formulas, the peptide system is a gentler option.
• Inflammatory Conditions: Omega-3s help manage inflammation often present in critical illnesses.
• High Protein Needs: Its high protein content (75 g/L) supports healing and recovery in stressed patients.
• Fluid Restrictions: The high caloric density allows for maximum nutrient intake in a limited fluid volume.

Vital AF 1.2 Cal vs. Standard Formulas

The table below outlines the main differences between specialized and standard formulas.

Feature	Vital AF 1.2 Cal (Peptide-Based)	Standard Polymeric Formulas
Protein Source	Hydrolyzed peptides (pre-digested)	Whole proteins (whey, casein)
Absorption	Enhanced and easier for compromised GI tracts	Requires full digestion, can cause intolerance
Targeted Use	Patients with malabsorption, GI intolerance, inflammation	Patients with functional GI tracts needing complete nutrition
Caloric Density	Higher (1.2 Cal/mL)	Standard (typically 1.0 Cal/mL)
Immune Support	Contains Omega-3s (EPA/DHA) for inflammation modulation	Typically lacks specific anti-inflammatory lipids
GI Tolerance	Designed for improved tolerance with prebiotics	Can cause intolerance in patients with certain conditions

How to Use Vital AF 1.2 Cal

For oral use, shake well and serve chilled or at room temperature. For tube feeding, follow physician's instructions on flow rate and volume. Proper handling and storage are essential to avoid contamination. Store at room temperature before opening, then refrigerate and use within 48 hours.

Conclusion: A Targeted Solution for Complex Needs

In summary, what is vital 1.2 calories defines a highly specialized therapeutic nutrition. It is a medical food crafted to address specific clinical issues, not a general supplement. Its peptide-based protein, anti-inflammatory omega-3s, and prebiotic fiber work together to support patients with malabsorption, GI intolerance, and inflammation. For those unable to absorb nutrients from regular food or standard shakes, Vital AF 1.2 Cal provides vital nutritional support under medical guidance, aiding healing and recovery.

References

• Abbott Store: Product information for Vital AF 1.2 Cal. Provides details on ingredients and uses.
• Abbott Nutrition: Vital AF 1.2 Cal product specifications, including features and benefits.
• GlobalRx: Clinical profile of VITAL AF 1.2 Cal, explaining its use in enteral nutrition.
• HealthProductsForYou: Abbott Nutrition Vital AF 1.2 Cal Oral Supplement listing, with FAQ and benefits.
• Vitality Medical: Vital AF 1.2 Cal product page with a detailed benefits list.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Vital 1.2 Cal used for?

Vital AF 1.2 Cal is used for patients with compromised gastrointestinal function, including malabsorption, maldigestion, GI intolerance, or inflammatory conditions.

Is Vital 1.2 Cal a complete source of nutrition?

Yes, Vital AF 1.2 Cal provides complete and balanced nutrition and can be used as a sole or supplemental source of nutrition under medical supervision.

What is the protein source in Vital 1.2 Cal?

The protein source is a hydrolyzed peptide-based system derived from whey and casein, which is easier to digest and absorb than intact protein.

Can I drink Vital 1.2 Cal if I am lactose intolerant?

Yes, Vital AF 1.2 Cal is suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance. It is also gluten-free.

How should Vital AF 1.2 Cal be stored?

Store unopened containers at room temperature. Once opened, refrigerate and use within 48 hours for containers or 24 hours for oral consumption directly from the container.

Does Vital 1.2 Cal help with inflammation?

Yes, the formula contains omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) from fish oil, which are included to help modulate inflammation and support immune function.

Is Vital 1.2 Cal suitable for weight gain?

As a calorically dense formula with high protein, it can support weight gain in individuals with malnutrition, muscle wasting, or increased nutrient needs, but should be used under medical guidance.

What's the difference between Vital AF 1.2 Cal and a standard nutritional drink?

Vital AF 1.2 Cal is a peptide-based therapeutic formula for complex GI issues and inflammation, while standard formulas typically use intact proteins and are for more general nutritional needs.