Fat absorption in low birthweight infants.

Studies on the incomplete fat absorption in newborns, particularly preterm ones, are reviewed. In the first week term breastfed newborns have a fat absorption coefficient of 91%. Lyophilization or pasteurigation reduces this figure in term as well as in preterm newborns. Excess Ca++ lowers fat absorption. So far, there is no evidence of immaturity of intracellular fat transport through the enterocyte. In the newborn low pancreatic lipase activity and low intraluminal bile salt concentrations appear to limit fat absorption. The most effective method to improve fat absorption in preterm babies seems to substitute part of the milk fat by medium-chain triglycerides.