Author Description

This volume reviews recent studies on protein metabolism during infancy and presents authoritative guidelines on optimal protein intake for infants. The findings and recommendations presented are of crucial importance in view of current concerns about meeting the special nutritional needs of premature and sick infants. Coverage begins with studies on the biochemistry and physiology of protein metabolism, the interrelations between protein and energy metabolism, and the digestibility and absorption of protein in infants. The contributors then assess current international recommendations on protein intakes during infancy and discuss concerns regarding the quantity and quality of protein available in human milk and formula. Chapters examine the protein content of human colostrum and mature human milk and the amino acid patterns of protein in human milk and formula. Close attention is given to the protein requirements of low-birthweight, very-low-birthweight, and small-for-gestational-age infants and to the essential amino acid requirements of infants with inborn errors of metabolism. The protein needs of healthy full-term infants, both during the first four months and during weaning, are also examined. Other chapters focus on the nutritional importance of nonprotein nitrogen; the role of essential and nonessential amino acids in neonatal nutrition; the significance of nucleic acids, nucleotides, and related compounds in infants; and the role of tumor necrosis factor in protein metabolism. Protein Metabolism During Infancy is an essential reference for all neonatologists, pediatricians, and nutritionists. It offers invaluable guidance on designing appropriate nutritional regimens both for healthy full-term infants and for premature or compromised infants.