[Nutrient and energy administration with formula diets, exemplified by Crohn disease. 2. Calculation of energy and nutrient administration with various formula diets].

In a recent inquiry in Children's Hospitals (1st communication), the 14 formula diets generally used in cases of Crohn's Disease were determined. Based on an energy intake of 2,500 kcal/day (recommendations of the german nutrition council [DGE] and the U.S. standard [RDA]) and assuming correct dosage, intake values for the following nutrients were calculated: liquid, Na, Cl, K, Ca, P, Mg, Fe, Zn, Cu, J, Mn, vitamins A, D, E, B1, B2, B6, B12, C, and folic acid. Protein, fat and carbohydrates were calculated as energy equivalents. Osmolarities are based on manufacturers' specifications. The applicability of recommendations for healthy individuals to the nutritional needs of the sick is discussed. Comparing recommendations (DGE, RDA, B undesgesundheitsamt) with calculated intake values there are pronounced differences in the amounts of basic components (i.e. protein, fat, carbohydrates), whereas the formulas, with only a few exceptions, generally show a balanced picture for the other nutrients. It is pointed out that the manufacturers should use standardized nomenclature, specification of ingredients and instructions for dosage. The availability of balanced basic formulas, to be supplemented with individual components as necessary, would be highly desirable.