The utilization of a formula free of lactose, elaborated to cover needs of malnourished infants with chronic diarrhea and complex intestinal intolerances was evaluated. The formula was administered through a nasogastric tube in continuous regimen. Thirteen children, ten males and three females, with median ages of 5.5 months, were studied. They had severe malnutrition and persistent diarrhea. The administered diet was very effective, since the infants showed a good increase in the anthropometric values at the end of the study. Furthermore, a good protein-energy intaken was observed and diarrhea or metabolic disorders did not occur during the use of the formula.
: nutritional therapy; enteral nutrition; diarrhea; child malnutrition
