Metabolic requirements of low-birth-weight infants

Abstract

A study was carried out in order to determine the respiratory quotient (RQ) and caloric expenditures of low-birth-weight infants. A basal metabolic rate of 45 to 60 Cal. per kilogram of body weight per 24 hours was observed in the sleeping, postprandial, nondistressed infant, depending on age and birth weight. Low RQ's were observed throughout the first week of life, indicating a heavy reliance on fat stores during this period. This fall in RQ could be prevented by administration of 60 to 80 Cal./Kg./24 hours, suggesting that the neonatal fall in RQ represents relative starvation with increased breakdown of fat and protein stores.