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Formulas Used in Tube Feedings A variety of tube feeding formulas is available. This page summarizes some of the types of formulas that are typically used: Commercial formulas for infants
Commercial formulas for children
Home-prepared formulas for children Commercially-available modular components COMMERCIAL FORMULAS FOR INFANTS The formulas described in this section are “complete” formulas, providing carbohydrate, fat, and protein, as well as vitamins and minerals. Formulas for premature infants Formulas for premature infants are available. These formulas are more energy-dense than a standard infant formula, and have more protein, electrolytes, minerals, and vitamins. Most formulas are appropriate for infants weighing 1800 grams or less, and thus, it is not common for many infants using these formulas to be seen in a community setting. A few formulas are available for premature infants weighing up to 2000-2500 grams. These formulas are more energy-dense and have more vitamins and minerals than standard infant formula. Both formulas for premature infants and “post-discharge” formulas should be suggested and monitored by a physician and RD familiar with the specialized needs of preterm infants. Standard infant formulas Standard infant formulas provide 20 kilocalories per ounce and generally approximate the nutrient composition of breastmilk. Standard infant formulas are made from cow’s milk protein (casein and whey) or soy, lactose (sometimes corn syrup solids), and a variety of vegetable oils. Standard infant formulas are appropriate for most infants who receive formula. Protein hydrolysate infant formulas For infants who have protein malabsorption problems, formulas with small peptides and amino acids are available. The fatty acid compositions of several of these formulas are also modified to include medium chain triglycerides. Elemental infant formulas Amino acid-based formulas are available for infants who have cow’s milk protein or multiple food protein intolerance and cannot tolerate hydrolysate formulas. COMMERCIAL FORMULAS FOR CHILDREN The formulas described in this section are “complete” formulas, providing carbohydrate, fat, and protein, as well as vitamins and minerals. Standard formulas Standard formulas contain intact protein (usually from casein, whey, or soy) and can contain fiber. In general, they are appropriate for children between 1 and 10 years of age and have a variety of osmolalities. Elemental formulas Elemental formulas are peptide-based formulas, with simple carbohydrates and, typically, fat as medium-chain triglycerides and essential fatty acids. These formulas are appropriate for children with problems with malabsorption who do not tolerate a standard formula or for children with allergies to soy protein or casein. Specialized formulas Formulas are available for children with specific nutrient needs (e.g., metabolic or renal disorders). The use of these formulas should be monitored by a team familiar with the specific condition. HOME-PREPARED FORMULAS FOR CHILDREN Some families prefer to prepare formulas from food at home because this allows the child to eat the same foods as the rest of the family. Home-prepared formulas can present a number of complications, including problems with tube clogging because of viscosity of formula. Careful attention to the nutrient composition (energy, protein, vitamins, minerals, fluid) is necessary, especially if the same foods are always used, and supplements may be needed to meet micronutrient needs. More information about the use of home-prepared formulas is referenced in the Resources section. COMMERCIALLY-AVAILABLE MODULAR COMPONENTS Products to add specific nutrients to formulas are also available. Modular products can include:
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