Early rapid weight gain among formula‐fed infants: Impact of formula type and maternal feeding styles

Abstract

Summary Background What and how infants are fed are considered important determinants for the risk factor of early rapid gain weight. Objectives We conducted secondary analyses on data from a randomized clinical trial, wherein infants randomized to feed cow milk formula had double the incidence of early rapid weight gain than those fed extensively hydrolyzed protein formula, to determine whether maternal feeding styles had independent effects or interactive effects with infant formula type on early rapid weight gain. Methods Anthropometry and feeding patterning (number of daily formula feeds) were measured monthly, and maternal feeding styles were measured at 0.5, 3.5, and 4.5 months. Longitudinal models were fitted using generalized estimating equations and separate logistic models conducted. Results The treatment groups did not differ in formula feeding patterning or in maternal feeding styles, which were stable across the first 4.5 months. Feeding styles had no significant effects on early rapid weight gain and did not interact with formula group. However, type of infant formula had a direct and independent impact on early rapid weight gain (P = 0.003). Conclusions The type of infant formula had a differential impact on early rapid weight gain independent of maternal feeding style, highlighting the self‐regulatory capabilities of infants.

Amount, Preparation and Type of Formula Consumed and Its Association with Weight Gain in Infants Participating in the WIC Program in Hawaii and Puerto Rico

“…A more recent study evaluating the long-term effects (three and five years of age) of consuming regular versus extensively or partially hydrolyzed formulas during the first year of life showed no differences in growth outcomes [45]. However, two clinical trials conducted by Mennella’s group among infants comparing regular versus hydrolyzed formulas for several months found that those consuming the hydrolyzed formula had a significantly lower weight gain velocity and consumed less to reach satiation than those on the regular formula [46,47,48]. As mentioned earlier, protein in hydrolysate formulas is hydrolyzed and appears to be more easily absorbed; as shown in the aforementioned study, it may exert different satiety responses and, therefore, affect weight gain [20].…”

Impact of a prenatal education intervention in pregnant women to prevent overweight in infants

“…6 As for maternal perception of child weight status, a direct relationship with the success or failure of preventive measures against obesity has been found. 7,11 When mothers correctly perceive their children's weight, they are more likely to choose healthy foods 12 and to delay the introduction of supplementary feeding. 13 It should be noted that most early-age obesity prevention interventions that have so far been analyzed have been carried out after the child's birth and in high-income countries.…”

Impacto de una intervención de educación prenatal en mujeres embarazadas para prevenir el sobrepeso en lactantes

“…6 Respecto a la percepción materna del peso del hijo, se ha evidenciado una relación directa con el éxito o fracaso de las medidas preventivas contra la obesidad. 7,11 Cuando las madres perciben correctamente el peso de sus hijos, son más propensas a elegir alimentos saludables 12 y a retrasar la introducción de alimentación complementaria. 13 Cabe resaltar que la mayoría de las intervenciones de prevención de obesidad a temprana edad que han sido analizadas hasta el momento, se han efectuado después del nacimiento del niño y en países de ingresos altos.…”