In preterm formulas, what makes up the remainder of carbohydrate calories besides lactose?

In preterm formulas, what makes up the remainder of carbohydrate calories besides lactose?

• A. Glucose polymers
• B. Fructose
• C. Starch
• D. Galactose

Answer: (A)

Glucose polymers, such as maltodextrins, provide the remaining carbohydrate calories in preterm formulas beyond lactose. These long-chain glucose molecules are digested to glucose and supply a steady energy source that can help meet the higher energy needs of preterm infants while maintaining good tolerance and manageable osmolality. Fructose is not typically used in infant formulas because it can be poorly tolerated and cause GI discomfort; starch is slower to digest and not favored in modern preterm formulas; galactose is not added separately since lactose already supplies galactose (and glucose).

Glucose polymers, such as maltodextrins, provide the remaining carbohydrate calories in preterm formulas beyond lactose. These long-chain glucose molecules are digested to glucose and supply a steady energy source that can help meet the higher energy needs of preterm infants while maintaining good tolerance and manageable osmolality. Fructose is not typically used in infant formulas because it can be poorly tolerated and cause GI discomfort; starch is slower to digest and not favored in modern preterm formulas; galactose is not added separately since lactose already supplies galactose (and glucose).