Plasma and red cell folate values and folate requirements in formula-fed term infants.

Plasma and red cell folate concentrations (L. casei activity) and other pertinent blood values have been studied during the first year of life in 64 term infants. After weaning and until 6 months of age, 33 infants were given milk formula I (88 nmole [39 micrograms] folate per liter) and 31 infants MF II (178 nmole [78 micrograms] folate per liter). These infants were compared with 35 breast-fed term infants, considered to have an optimal folate status. The mean folate concentration in the human milk consumed at 3 months of age was 124 nmole (55 micrograms) per liter. The infants fed MF I had low plasma and red cell folate concentrations during the first months of life. The infants fed MF II had folate values almost comparable to those of the breast-fed infants. The weight gain in the infants fed MF II was significantly higher than observed in the infants fed MF I during the first 6 months of life. No significant differences related to folate deficiency were observed between the hemoglobin, RBC, and VPRC values in the formula-fed infants and those recorded in the breast-fed infants. It is estimated that the optimal folate intake during the first months of life in formula-fed infants is about 170 nmole (75 micrograms) per day. This amount is higher than previously recommended. Infants from all groups had folate intake similar to, or above, the minimal daily requirement needed for the erythropoiesis.