1. Nestlé Health Science
  2. Health Management
  3. Paediatrics
  4. Gastrointestinal Impairment
There are various diseases and conditions that can lead to GI impairment in children.

Gastrointestinal impairment can be caused as a result of various diseases and conditions, which can affect normal intake and absorption of nutrients.  The appropriate nutritional solution can play a key role in improving the overall condition, nutritional status and quality of life of the child.1 

Pediatric gastrointestinal impairment refers to a range of disorders that can affect any part of the digestive tract, from the esophagus and stomach to the small intestine, colon and rectum. 

The GI tract is responsible for the digestion of the food we eat. When children suffer from GI impairment, there is often a risk for malabsorption or maldigestion, which may lead to nutritional deficiencies.1 It is for this reason that a specific focus is placed on the nutritional status of these children, as optimum nutrient intake has been shown to support normal growth and development as well as improve the overall condition. For example, with children in critical care, appropriate nutrient intake is linked to a better recovery and shorter length of hospital stay.1

At Nestlé Health Science, we are committed to providing nutritional solutions that are tailored to the individual needs of the child. In the case of infants and children with GI impairment, these needs are very specific to the condition, which is why we have a range of different solutions to fulfil a variety of nutritional requirements, and an optimized taste to facilitate acceptance. 

1. http://www.nestlenutrition-institute.org/News/Pages/Nutritional-management-of-children-with-gastrointestinal-Impairment%E2%80%93key-to-clinical-outcome.aspx. Accessed December 2014

Read more
Close

Explore our range of paediatric nutrition solutions


BREASTFEEDING IS BEST FOR BABIES

ALFARÉ® and ALFAMINO® are Infant Formula Products for Special Dietary Use. Products are not suitable for general use. ALFAMINO® Junior is a food for special medical purposes specifically formulated for children with severe allergy and/or food intolerances. PEPTAMEN® Junior is a food for special medical purposes specially formulated for the dietary management of gastrointestinal impairment in children aged 1-10 years. SUSTAGEN® KID ESSENTIALS® is a food for special medical purposes specially formulated for medical conditions where nutritional needs cannot be met by diet modification alone. Products must be used under medical supervision.


Breast milk is best for baby and provides ideal nutrition. Good maternal nutrition is important for preparation and maintenance of breastfeeding. Introducing partial bottle feeding could negatively affect breastfeeding and reversing a decision not to breastfeed is difficult. Professional advice should be followed on infant feeding. Infant formula should be prepared and used exactly as directed or it could pose a health hazard. The preparation requirements and cost of providing infant formula until 12 months of age should be considered before making a decision to formula feed.


Mothers should be encouraged to continue breastfeeding even when their infants have cow’s milk protein allergy. If a decision to use an infant formula for special dietary use is taken, it must be used under medical supervision.

Share