139 CALCIUM(Ca) AND PHOSPHATE(P) METABOLISM IN PRETERM INFANTS ON A FORMULA WITH 5 OR 40% MEDIUM-CHAIN TRIGLYCERIDES(MCT)

Formulas specially designed for preterm infants contain up to 50% MCT because of their almost complete absorption. The effects of MCT(C8 and C10) on mineral absorption were studied in infants receiving formula (Nutricia, Holland) with 5%(LCT group) or 40%(MCT group) of fat as MCT, providing 80 mg P-, 152 mg Ca- and 120 kcal/kg·d,+ 600 IU/day vit D. 72 hr balance studies were performed at 4 weeks of age. Values:mean ± 1sd or median with interquartile range. Plasma levels (MCT vs LCT) of Ca(2.4±0.1 vs 2.4±0.1 mmol/L), P(2.2±0.3 vs 2.3±0.2 mmol/L) and Alkaline Phosphatase (273±74 vs 295±43 IU/L) were in the normal range.Conclusions: 1 Both formulas show satisfactory calcium and phosphate retention, with normal plasma levels. 2 Calcium absorption, but not phosphate absorption was lower with the LCT formula. 3 The elevation of PTH and of urinary P excretion suggest that in preterm LCT formula, Ca/P ratio should be slightly higher than 2:1.