Use and Tolerance of a High Energy Peptide 
Based Paediatric Oral Nutritional Supplement: 
A UK Multicentre Tria

Smith C; Norton H; Patel M; Simpson K; Saduera S

Abstract

Use and Tolerance of a High Energy Peptide Based Paediatric Oral Nutritional Supplement: A UK Multicentre Tria

Introduction: Supporting optimal growth is a key responsibility in paediatric care. Oral Nutritional Supplements (ONS) can help achieve nutritional needs in patients with or at risk of disease related malnutrition. Children with Gastro Intestinal (GI) dysfunctions often have a reduced ability to tolerate and accept whole protein- ONS.

Objectives: To assess the tolerance and acceptability of a new high energy peptidebased ONS in children presenting with GI impairment-related clinical conditions.

Research design and methods: This was a prospective, observational study recruiting children from four UK NHS sites who were on an ONS, >12 months age and did not meet any exclusion criteria. Baseline data was collected including demographics, anthropometry, GI symptoms and stool data. The study ONS was a 1.5 kcal/ml peptide whey based supplement. Children took the study ONS for 7 days and recorded GI symptoms and volume consumed. UK Ethics approval was granted.

Results: Twenty one children were recruited. Fifteen children (6 M:9 F, mean BMI Z score -0.55) completed the 7-day trial. At day 7 on completion of the study 21% reported an improvement in a GI symptoms. 85% reported no worsening of GI symptoms. No major or critical GI symptoms were reported during the study period. 57% were able to consume the recommended volume. Overall compliance was satisfactory.

Conclusion: Tolerance and acceptability were positive. The transition and subsequent tolerance to the study ONS was most successful in those historically on an extensively hydrolysed or peptide-based supplement. High energy peptide ONS may prove useful as a clinical option in nutritionally vulnerable patients with GI issues.

Trial Registration: The trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (CT.gov identifier: NCT04515940).

Author(s):

Smith C*, Norton H, Patel M , Simpson K and Saduera S

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