Risk of Low Micronutrient Intake in Neurologically Disabled Children Artificially Fed

Gastrointestinal and nutritional issues in children with neurological disability

“…Micronutrient deficiency is common in children with neurological disability, especially in those not receiving nutritional supplements . Children who are tube fed may develop nutrient deficiencies as enteral formulas provide adequate amounts of micronutrients only when volumes consumed correspond to age‐related dietary reference intake for energy . Iron, selenium, zinc, essential fatty acids, and vitamins C, D, and E were reported to be deficient in 15% to 50% of children with neurological disability who have reduced dietary intakes .…”

“…Pharmaceutical preparations may also influence nutritional status by interfering with absorption or utilization of various nutrients. Subclinical micronutrient deficiencies are known to impair numerous biological processes, including immune function and infection susceptibility . ESPGHAN guidelines recommend that assessment of micronutrient status (including vitamin D, iron status, calcium, and phosphorus) be part of the nutritional assessment of children with neurological disability.…”

“…9 Children who are tube fed may develop nutrient deficiencies as enteral formulas provide adequate amounts of micronutrients only when volumes consumed correspond to age-related dietary reference intake for energy. 11 Iron, selenium, zinc, essential fatty • Standard polymeric formula via gastrostomy tube is an effective, long-term nutritional intervention.…”

“…Subclinical micronutrient deficiencies are known to impair numerous biological processes, including immune function and infection susceptibility. 11 ESPGHAN guidelines recommend that assessment of micronutrient status (including vitamin D, iron status, calcium, and phosphorus) be part of the nutritional assessment of children with neurological disability. In the absence of specific recommendations for use, standard recommendations for dietary intakes of vitamins, minerals and trace elements in typically developing children can be applied.…”

Dietary Intakes and Nutritional Issues in Neurologically Impaired Children

“…Furthermore, also children who are exclusively tube fed, may develop nutrient deficiencies, because enteral formulas provide adequate amounts of micronutrients only when volumes consumed meet their age-related daily recommended intakes for energy. Many NI children require lower energy intakes posing them at risk for low micronutrient intake [ 17 ]. Iron deficiency anemia is a frequent complication in NI children due to low iron intake.…”