A real-world cross-sectional study evaluating the role of an oral amino acid-based supplement in nutrient intake by preschoolers on a cow's milk elimination diet.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Food allergy has several negative nutritional consequences and may persist beyond the first year of lives. This study aimed to assess the role of a complete oral amino acid-based supplement in the diet of children on cow's milk protein elimination diet because of food allergy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study included two groups of children aged 1-5 years paired by age and socioeconomic status: (1) study group, on cow's milk protein elimination diet plus an oral amino acid-based supplement, and (2) control group, on cow's milk protein elimination diet. Sociodemographic, clinical, anthropometric, and dietary data were obtained through online interviews. Two 24-h dietary recalls were collected on nonconsecutive days. Both groups comprised mostly boys. RESULTS: The study group presented lower values of body mass index. The frequency of feeding difficulties was similar between groups. The study group had a higher intake of energy, protein, carbohydrates, calcium, iron, zinc, phosphorus, magnesium, copper, selenium, vitamins D, E, B1, B2, B6, and B12, niacin, and folic acid compared to the control group. A higher proportion of children in the study group had adequate intake according to the recommendations made for energy, carbohydrates, iron, phosphorus, selenium, vitamins A, D, E, B1, B2, and B6, and folic acid. CONCLUSIONS: The use of a complete oral amino acid-based supplement has a positive effect on the diet quality of preschoolers on cow's milk elimination diet because of food allergy, promoting higher intake of energy, calcium, vitamin D, and other essential nutrients.

Improving the Nutritional Status of Socially Vulnerable Children in Manaus, Brazilian Amazon, through a Food Supplementation Programme.

Information on the effects of government nutrition programmes provided to socially vulnerable children to improve their nutritional status is scarce. We analysed the effectiveness of a nutritional programme, including food supplementation with infant formula, on the evolution of the weight and height of socially vulnerable children from Manaus in the Brazilian Amazon. This study included 7752 children aged 12-24 months admitted to the programme between 2017 and 2020. Weight and height measurements at admission and every three months thereafter were extracted from the programme database. Weight-for-age, weight-for-height, body mass index-for-age (BMI/A), and height-for-age z-scores were analysed using a multilevel linear regression model, which showed a statistically significant decrease in nutritional deficits toward nutritional recovery at follow-up. The programme's effectiveness was evaluated in 1617 children using a paired analysis comparing data from between 12 and 15 months of age at admission and follow-up after 6-9 months. Children admitted with wasting presented an increase in the BMI/A z-score, whereas children admitted with a risk of being overweight and obese had a statistically significant decrease in the BMI/A z-score. Children admitted with stunted growth also showed increased height-for-age z-scores. The nutrition programme was effective for children experiencing wasting and reducing excess weight.

Assessing impaired gastric accommodation in children with functional constipation using the water load test.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to evaluate gastric accommodation in pediatric patients with functional constipation using the water load test. METHOD: This was a cross-sectional case-control study. Herein, the water load test results of children aged >4 years with functional constipation referred to a Pediatric Gastroenterology Outpatient Clinic (functional constipation group) were compared with those of a control group (without functional constipation or chronic abdominal pain) recruited from two public schools. Clinical manifestations outlined in the Rome IV criteria were used to diagnose functional constipation. Water load tests were performed after 3 h of fasting. For the test, the participants were asked to drink as much water as possible in 3 min. KEY RESULTS: A total of 36 patients and 77 students were included in the functional constipation and control groups, respectively. There was no significant difference in age between the groups (8.6 ± 2.3 years and 8.8 ± 1.8 years in the functional constipation and control groups, respectively). The water load test showed intake volumes of 390 ± 245 mL and 528 ± 219 mL in the functional constipation and control groups, respectively (p = 0.001). The maximum volume in the water load test correlated with the 24 h daily intake of energy (rS = +0.42, p = 0.012), protein (rS = +0.48, p = 0.004), and water (rS = +0.39, p = 0.020) only in the group with functional constipation. CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES: According to the water load test, gastric accommodation was impaired in children with severe functional constipation. The impairment of gastric accommodation in children with severe functional constipation is related to food intake.

Hypohydration, Functional Constipation, and Physical Activity in Elementary School Students.

This school-based, cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate whether hypohydration is related to functional constipation and physical activity in school-aged children. The study included 452 students aged 6-12 years. Hypohydration, defined as urinary osmolality >800 mOsm/kg, was more prevalent ( P = 0.002) in boys (72.1%) than in girls (57.5%). The difference in the prevalence of functional constipation according to sex (20.1% in boys and 23.8% in girls) was not statistically significant ( P = 0.81). In bivariate analysis, functional constipation was associated with hypohydration in girls (odds ratio = 1.93, 95% confidence interval: 1.07-3.49), and multiple logistic regression did not reach statistical significance ( P = 0.082). Low proportions of active commuting to school in both sexes were associated with hypohydration. However, there were no associations between functional constipation, active commuting to school, and physical activity scores. In conclusion, multiple logistic regression did not demonstrate an association between hypohydration and functional constipation in school-aged children.

Real-life data on the effectiveness of extensively hydrolyzed protein-based formula and amino acid-based formula in regaining weight and height in infants on a cow's milk protein elimination diet.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the effectiveness of extensively hydrolyzed protein-based formula (EHF) or amino acid-based formula (AAF) in reversing the weight and height deficit in infants on a cow's milk protein elimination diet. METHODS: Infants from a retrospective cohort who were fed EHF (n = 17) or AAF (n = 16) for at least 2 months on a cow's milk protein elimination diet were included. The weight and height values recorded in the infants' medical records were obtained. RESULTS: The mean age of the infants at the start of EHF and AAF were 5.8 ± 2.6 and 4.4 ± 2.5 months, respectively (P = 0.061). There was no difference between the groups in terms of the monthly weight gain (373.0 ± 212.2 and 453.1 ± 138.5 g, P = 0.223, respectively, for EHF and AAF), while the monthly increase in height was greater in the group fed with AAF (1.3 ± 0.5 and 1.8 ± 0.6, P = 0.030). A comparison between the difference in the initial z-score and in the oral challenge test of weight-for-age (+0.7 ± 1.2 and +1.3 ± 1.4, P = 0.262, respectively, for the EHF and AAF groups), height-for-age (+0.2 ± 1.1 and +1.2 ± 1.8, P = 0.090), and body mass index (BMI)-for-age (+0.7 ± 1.3 and +0.7 ± 1.5, P = 0.971) did not reveal a statistically significant difference between the groups. Correlation coefficients showed that the greater the initial nutritional deficit, the greater the positive variation between the beginning of each formula and the oral challenge test. CONCLUSION: EHF and AAF provided similar increases in the weight-for-age, height-for-age, and BMI-for-age z-scores in both groups. The monthly increase in height was greater in infants who received AAF.

Real-life data on the effectiveness of extensively hydrolyzed protein-based formula and amino acid–based formula in regaining weight and height in infants on a cow’s milk protein elimination diet

Objective: To compare the effectiveness of extensively hydrolyzed protein-based formula (EHF) or amino acid–based formula (AAF) in reversing the weight and height deficit in infants on a cow’s milk protein elimination diet. Methods: Infants from a retrospective cohort who were fed EHF (n = 17) or AAF (n = 16) for at least 2 months on a cow’s milk protein elimination diet were included. The weight and height values recorded in the infants’ medical records were obtained. Results: The mean age of the infants at the start of EHF and AAF were 5.8 ± 2.6 and 4.4 ± 2.5 months, respectively (P = 0.061). There was no difference between the groups in terms of the monthly weight gain (373.0 ± 212.2 and 453.1 ± 138.5 g, P = 0.223, respectively, for EHF and AAF), while the monthly increase in height was greater in the group fed with AAF (1.3 ± 0.5 and 1.8 ± 0.6, P = 0.030). A comparison between the difference in the initial z-score and in the oral challenge test of weight-for-age (+0.7 ± 1.2 and +1.3 ± 1.4, P = 0.262, respectively, for the EHF and AAF groups), height-for-age (+0.2 ± 1.1 and +1.2 ± 1.8, P = 0.090), and body mass index (BMI)-for-age (+0.7 ± 1.3 and +0.7 ± 1.5, P = 0.971) did not reveal a statistically significant difference between the groups. Correlation coefficients showed that the greater the initial nutritional deficit, the greater the positive variation between the beginning of each formula and the oral challenge test. Conclusion: EHF and AAF provided similar increases in the weight-for-age, height-for-age, and BMI-for-age z-scores in both groups. The monthly increase in height was greater in infants who received AAF (AU)

Overweight status, abdominal circumference, physical activity, and functional constipation in children

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of functional constipation and its relationship with the food intake, overweight status, and physical activity of children. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included students from two public schools in the municipality of Osasco, which is located in the metropolitan area of São Paulo. Functional constipation was diagnosed if the clinical manifestations of the Rome IV criteria were present for more than 2 months. A 24-h recall survey was used to determine the daily food intake. Weight, height, abdominal circumference, and bioelectrical impedance were used to evaluate the weight status. Active commuting to school and physical activity scores were assessed using a questionnaire that has been validated in Brazil. RESULTS: A total of 452 children, aged 6-12 years, were evaluated. Functional constipation was observed in 22.3% of participants. A greater abdominal circumference was associated with functional constipation in girls (p=0.036) in the bivariate analysis but not in the logistic regression model. Boys with functional constipation consumed higher quantities of fats (p=0.041). There was no statistically significant relationship between functional constipation and overweight status (44.6 and 34.5% of children with and without constipation, respectively; p=0.083) and active commuting to school (48.5 and 56.7% of children with and without constipation, respectively; p=0.179). CONCLUSION: Functional constipation was associated with a greater abdominal circumference in girls in the bivariate analysis, however, without association in the logistic regression model. Boys with functional constipation consumed higher quantities of fat. No association was found between functional constipation, overweight status, and physical activity.

Overweight status, abdominal circumference, physical activity, and functional constipation in children.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of functional constipation and its relationship with the food intake, overweight status, and physical activity of children. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included students from two public schools in the municipality of Osasco, which is located in the metropolitan area of São Paulo. Functional constipation was diagnosed if the clinical manifestations of the Rome IV criteria were present for more than 2 months. A 24-h recall survey was used to determine the daily food intake. Weight, height, abdominal circumference, and bioelectrical impedance were used to evaluate the weight status. Active commuting to school and physical activity scores were assessed using a questionnaire that has been validated in Brazil. RESULTS: A total of 452 children, aged 6-12 years, were evaluated. Functional constipation was observed in 22.3% of participants. A greater abdominal circumference was associated with functional constipation in girls (p=0.036) in the bivariate analysis but not in the logistic regression model. Boys with functional constipation consumed higher quantities of fats (p=0.041). There was no statistically significant relationship between functional constipation and overweight status (44.6 and 34.5% of children with and without constipation, respectively; p=0.083) and active commuting to school (48.5 and 56.7% of children with and without constipation, respectively; p=0.179). CONCLUSION: Functional constipation was associated with a greater abdominal circumference in girls in the bivariate analysis, however, without association in the logistic regression model. Boys with functional constipation consumed higher quantities of fat. No association was found between functional constipation, overweight status, and physical activity.

THE FATIGUE RATE INDEX IS HIGHER IN CHILDREN WITH FUNCTIONAL CONSTIPATION AND RETENTIVE FECAL INCONTINENCE.

BACKGROUND: The Fatigue Rate Index (FRI) is a parameter in anorectal manometry (ARM) to assess sustained voluntary contraction, considering the squeeze pressure and fatigability of the external anal sphincter. It is used in adults to detect fecal incontinence even in patients who present normal squeeze pressures. The FRI in adult patients with functional constipation is similar to controls. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and values of FRI in children in relation to the values previously established in adults and comparing children with functional constipation and retentive fecal incontinence to children without retentive fecal incontinence. METHODS: This retrospective study evaluated 105 ARM performed from Jan 2014 to Apr 2015. 42 patients were selected (were able to perform a voluntary contraction and had no co-morbidities other than functional constipation). 14 (33.3%) of those collaborated in sustaining contraction for 40 seconds (s), allowing the evaluation of the FRI. Patients with retentive fecal incontinence secondary to functional constipation (n=7, aged 6 to 13 years, six boys) were our interest group. Patients with functional constipation without fecal incontinence (n=7, aged 6 to 13 years, four boys) were considered a reference group. The ARM were performed with a radial eight-channel perfusion catheter (DynamedTM, São Paulo, Brazil) and the FRI was calculated (Proctomaster 6.4) in the first 20 s and overall 40 s of sustained voluntary contraction. RESULTS: 14 of the selected 42 collaborated in sustaining contraction for 40 s, allowing the evaluation of the FRI. In the first 20 s of contraction, the fecal incontinence group showed a significantly higher mean FRI (2.48±1.39 min) compared to the reference group (1.13±0.72 min, P=0.042), which was not observed in the 40 s interval due to less uniform contraction. The anal resting pressure was higher in the fecal incontinence group (76.83 mmHg) than in the reference group (54.13 mmHg), but the statistical study did not reach significance (P=0.051). CONCLUSION: The FRI is feasible in children. The mean FRI obtained in this study is lower than the reported in constipated adults. The mean FRI among children with functional constipation and retentive fecal incontinence is higher than among constipated children without retentive fecal incontinence.

O índice da taxa de fadiga é maior em crianças com constipação e incontinência fecal por retenção / The fatigue rate index is higher in children with functional constipation and retentive fecal incontinence

ABSTRACT Background: The Fatigue Rate Index (FRI) is a parameter in anorectal manometry (ARM) to assess sustained voluntary contraction, considering the squeeze pressure and fatigability of the external anal sphincter. It is used in adults to detect fecal incontinence even in patients who present normal squeeze pressures. The FRI in adult patients with functional constipation is similar to controls. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and values of FRI in children in relation to the values previously established in adults and comparing children with functional constipation and retentive fecal incontinence to children without retentive fecal incontinence. Methods: This retrospective study evaluated 105 ARM performed from Jan 2014 to Apr 2015. 42 patients were selected (were able to perform a voluntary contraction and had no co-morbidities other than functional constipation). 14 (33.3%) of those collaborated in sustaining contraction for 40 seconds (s), allowing the evaluation of the FRI. Patients with retentive fecal incontinence secondary to functional constipation (n=7, aged 6 to 13 years, six boys) were our interest group. Patients with functional constipation without fecal incontinence (n=7, aged 6 to 13 years, four boys) were considered a reference group. The ARM were performed with a radial eight-channel perfusion catheter (DynamedTM, São Paulo, Brazil) and the FRI was calculated (Proctomaster 6.4) in the first 20 s and overall 40 s of sustained voluntary contraction. Results: 14 of the selected 42 collaborated in sustaining contraction for 40 s, allowing the evaluation of the FRI. In the first 20 s of contraction, the fecal incontinence group showed a significantly higher mean FRI (2.48±1.39 min) compared to the reference group (1.13±0.72 min, P=0.042), which was not observed in the 40 s interval due to less uniform contraction. The anal resting pressure was higher in the fecal incontinence group (76.83 mmHg) than in the reference group (54.13 mmHg), but the statistical study did not reach significance (P=0.051). Conclusion: The FRI is feasible in children. The mean FRI obtained in this study is lower than the reported in constipated adults. The mean FRI among children with functional constipation and retentive fecal incontinence is higher than among constipated children without retentive fecal incontinence.

RESUMO Contexto O índice de Taxa de Fadiga (ITF) é um parâmetro na manometria anorretal (MAR) que é utilizado para avaliar a contração voluntária sustentada, considerando a pressão máxima de contração e a fatigabilidade do esfíncter anal externo. Este parâmetro é utilizado em adultos para diagnóstico da incontinência fecal mesmo entre paciente que apresentem pressões máximas de contração normais. O ITF em pacientes adultos com constipação é similar a controles. Objetivo: Avaliar a factibilidade e os valores do ITF em crianças com constipação e incontinência fecal por retenção em relação aos valores previamente estabelecidos para adultos, e comparar os dados das crianças com constipação intestinal funcional com e sem incontinência fecal por retenção. Métodos Este estudo retrospectivo avaliou 105 MAR realizadas de janeiro de 2014 a abril de 2015. 42 pacientes foram selecionados (foram capazes de realizar uma contração voluntária e não apresentavam outras comorbidades além da constipação). 14 destes pacientes cooperaram em manter a contração voluntária por 40 segundos, permitindo a avaliação do ITF. Pacientes com incontinência fecal por retenção secundária a constipação (n=7, 6 a 13 anos, seis meninos) constituíram nosso grupo de interesse. Pacientes com constipação funcional sem incontinência fecal por retenção. (n=7, 6 a 13 anos, quatro meninos) constituíram o grupo de referência. As MAR foram realizadas com cateter de perfusão de oito canais radiais (DynamedTM, São Paulo, Brazil) e o ITF foi calculado (Proctomaster 6.4) nos primeiros 20 segundos e também nos 40 segundos totais da contração voluntária sustentada. Resultados: Dos 42 pacientes selecionados, 14 (33%) colaboraram mantendo o platô de contração uniforme durante 40 segundos, permitindo a avaliação do ITF nos primeiros 20 segundos de contração, o grupo com incontinência fecal apresentou uma média de ITF significativamente mais alta (2,48±1,39 min) em comparação ao grupo de referência (1,13±0,72 min, P=0,042), o que não foi observado no intervalo de 40 segundos devido a contração menos uniforme. A pressão anal de repouso foi mais elevada no grupo com incontinência fecal (76,83 mmHg) do que no grupo de referência (54,13 mmHg), porém o estudo estatístico não atingiu significância (P=0,051). Conclusão: O ITF é factível em crianças. A média do ITF obtida neste estudo é mais baixa do que o reportado em adultos constipados (2,8 min). A média do ITF entre crianças constipadas com incontinência fecal por retenção fui superior ao do que observado em crianças constipadas sem incontinência fecal retentiva.

Prematurity and functional gastrointestinal disorders in infancy: a cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) are defined as a variable combination of chronic or recurrent gastrointestinal symptoms that are not explained by structural or biochemical abnormalities. Their relationship with prematurity has been increasingly studied. OBJECTIVE: To compare the frequency of FGIDs in preterm and term infants and to evaluate whether invasive procedures during the neonatal period in preterm infants are associated with greater likelihood of FGIDs in the first two years of life. DESIGN AND SETTING: Controlled nested cross-sectional study conducted in a Brazilian university hospital. METHODS: This was a controlled nested cross-sectional study on a retrospective cohort of infants born preterm who were compared with infants born at term regarding the presence of FGIDs. Medical consultations were conducted by a single pediatric gastroenterologist to obtain information on the gestational and neonatal periods and on clinical manifestations of the digestive tract. The Rome IV criteria for the diagnosis of FGIDs were used. RESULTS: A total of 197 infants (< 24 months), including 99 preterm and 98 term infants, were studied. Infant regurgitation was more prevalent in term infants (35.1% and 15.6%; P < 0.001). The frequencies of other FGIDs (infant colic, functional constipation, functional diarrhea and infant dyschezia) in preterm infants did not differ from those of term infants (P > 0.05). No relationship was found between invasive procedures during the neonatal period and development of FGIDs in preterm infants. CONCLUSION: Infants born preterm did not have higher frequency of FGIDs in the first two years of life.

CLINICAL SPECTRUM OF FUNCTIONAL CONSTIPATION AND BOWEL-HABIT PATTERNS OF SCHOOLCHILDREN RECRUITED FROM TWO ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS AND A SPECIALIZED OUTPATIENT CLINIC.

BACKGROUND: Early diagnosis of functional constipation is important for reducing its negative consequences on the health of children and adolescents. OBJECTIVE: To describe the clinical spectrum of functional constipation and bowel habit patterns in schoolchildren recruited from two primary schools and patients from a pediatric gastroenterology outpatient clinic. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 452 students from two elementary schools in the city of Osasco and 81 patients with functional constipation seen in an outpatient clinic specializing in pediatric gastroenterology. All children were aged between 6 and 12 years. The Rome IV criteria (two features for more than 1 month) and the Bristol scale were used. RESULTS: The prevalence of functional constipation among the elementary school students was 22.3% (n=101). Among the 351 students who did not have functional constipation, 182 (51.9%) had one of the clinical manifestations of the Rome IV criteria. Bristol stool scale types 1 and 2 were observed in 14 (8.3%) of the 169 students without any clinical manifestation of the Rome IV criteria and in 28 (15.4%) of the 182 students who presented one of the Rome IV criteria for functional constipation (P=0.060). A comparison of the clinical manifestations of children with functional constipation identified at school in relation to those seen at the specialized clinic showed the following differences: fewer than two bowel movements per week (21.8% and 54.3%; P<0.001, respectively), one or more episodes of fecal incontinence per week (14.8% and 53.1%; P<0.001), and retentive posturing (70.3% and 40.7%, P<0.001). Only 18 (17.8%) of the 101 students identified at the schools with functional constipation had received any treatment for this disease in the previous 2 months. CONCLUSION: As expected, the frequency of more severe clinical manifestations was higher in children seen at specialized clinics. Only a small proportion of the children identified with functional constipation at primary schools had undergone any form of treatment in the previous 2 months. More than half of the children without functional constipation in elementary schools reported one of the Rome IV clinical manifestations. Finally, functional constipation has a broad clinical spectrum and also requires attention for the prevention and the management of its early clinical manifestations.

Complementary feeding and nutritional status of infants on cow's milk proteins elimination diet.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the diet and nutritional status of infants on an elimination diet of cow's milk proteins. METHODS: Observational and cross-sectional study that compared: Infants on a cow's milk protein elimination diet (n=60) assisted at a hypoallergenic formula distribution unit and a control group of same age and gender without dietary restrictions (n=60). Age ranged from 6 to 24 months. The diet was evaluated using the 24-hour food survey and weight and height were measured. RESULTS: The macronutrient intake of both groups reached nutritional recommendations. The proportions of infants in the group of elimination of cow's milk proteins with insufficient intake were lower, compared to controls, for iron (13.3 and 31.7%; p=0.029), zinc (5.0 and 18.3%; p=0.047), and vitamin D (25.0 and 71.7%; p<0.001). The hypoallergenic formula contributed to a greater supply of nutrients than dairy foods for the control group. Between 12 and 24 months, the number of infants on a restriction diet who never consumed meat, fish, cereals, and eggs was higher than in the control group (p<0.05). The length-age Z scores in infants on a cow's milk protein elimination diet (-0.4±1.6) were lower (p=0.039) than in the control group (+0.2±1.3). CONCLUSIONS: The diet of infants with exclusion of cow's milk protein was adequate despite the delay in the introduction of some complementary foods. Infants on an elimination cow's milk protein diet showed lower linear growth without weight deficit.

Prematurity and functional gastrointestinal disorders in infancy: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) are defined as a variable combination of chronic or recurrent gastrointestinal symptoms that are not explained by structural or biochemical abnormalities. Their relationship with prematurity has been increasingly studied. OBJECTIVE: To compare the frequency of FGIDs in preterm and term infants and to evaluate whether invasive procedures during the neonatal period in preterm infants are associated with greater likelihood of FGIDs in the first two years of life. DESIGN AND SETTING: Controlled nested cross-sectional study conducted in a Brazilian university hospital. METHODS: This was a controlled nested cross-sectional study on a retrospective cohort of infants born preterm who were compared with infants born at term regarding the presence of FGIDs. Medical consultations were conducted by a single pediatric gastroenterologist to obtain information on the gestational and neonatal periods and on clinical manifestations of the digestive tract. The Rome IV criteria for the diagnosis of FGIDs were used. RESULTS: A total of 197 infants (< 24 months), including 99 preterm and 98 term infants, were studied. Infant regurgitation was more prevalent in term infants (35.1% and 15.6%; P < 0.001). The frequencies of other FGIDs (infant colic, functional constipation, functional diarrhea and infant dyschezia) in preterm infants did not differ from those of term infants (P > 0.05). No relationship was found between invasive procedures during the neonatal period and development of FGIDs in preterm infants. CONCLUSION: Infants born preterm did not have higher frequency of FGIDs in the first two years of life.

Breastfeeding in infants seen in private pediatric practices and its relation with type of delivery and history of prematurity

Abstract Objective: To describe the type of milk used to feed infants seen in private pediatric practices in Brazil. To evaluate the relationship between breastfeeding, type of delivery, and history of prematurity. Methods: This is a cross-sectional and observational study that included 4929 infants in the first year of life seen in private pediatric practices in the five geographic regions of Brazil. Mothers provided information about the type of milk used by their infant, the type of delivery (vaginal or cesarean), and whether the birth was premature. Results: Breastfeeding was the only source of milk for 56.1% (1546/2755) of infants in the first six months of life and 32.9% (716/2174) in the second. Of the infants who received other types of milk besides breastfeeding, there was a predominance of infant formula in 98.6% and 93.8% of the infants, respectively, in the first and in the second six months of life. Whole cow's milk was used by 0.7% (20/2755) of infants in the first six months and by 4.1% (90/2174) of infants in the second (p < 0.001). In the first six months of life, breastfeeding as the only type of milk was associated with vaginal delivery (OR = 1.79; p < 0.001) and not having a history of prematurity (OR = 2.48; p < 0.001). Conclusion: Breastfeeding was the only milk source for more than half of infants before 180 days of life. Birth by cesarean section and history of prematurity were negatively associated with breastfeeding as the only source of milk used in infant feeding.

Espectro clínico da constipação intestinal funcional e características do hábito intestinal de escolares recrutados em duas escolas e em um ambulatório especializado / Clinical spectrum of functional constipation and bowel-habit patterns of schoolchildren recruited from two elementary schools and a specialized outpatient clinic

ABSTRACT Background: Early diagnosis of functional constipation is important for reducing its negative consequences on the health of children and adolescents. Objective: To describe the clinical spectrum of functional constipation and bowel habit patterns in schoolchildren recruited from two primary schools and patients from a pediatric gastroenterology outpatient clinic. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 452 students from two elementary schools in the city of Osasco and 81 patients with functional constipation seen in an outpatient clinic specializing in pediatric gastroenterology. All children were aged between 6 and 12 years. The Rome IV criteria (two features for more than 1 month) and the Bristol scale were used. Results: The prevalence of functional constipation among the elementary school students was 22.3% (n=101). Among the 351 students who did not have functional constipation, 182 (51.9%) had one of the clinical manifestations of the Rome IV criteria. Bristol stool scale types 1 and 2 were observed in 14 (8.3%) of the 169 students without any clinical manifestation of the Rome IV criteria and in 28 (15.4%) of the 182 students who presented one of the Rome IV criteria for functional constipation (P=0.060). A comparison of the clinical manifestations of children with functional constipation identified at school in relation to those seen at the specialized clinic showed the following differences: fewer than two bowel movements per week (21.8% and 54.3%; P<0.001, respectively), one or more episodes of fecal incontinence per week (14.8% and 53.1%; P<0.001), and retentive posturing (70.3% and 40.7%, P<0.001). Only 18 (17.8%) of the 101 students identified at the schools with functional constipation had received any treatment for this disease in the previous 2 months. Conclusion: As expected, the frequency of more severe clinical manifestations was higher in children seen at specialized clinics. Only a small proportion of the children identified with functional constipation at primary schools had undergone any form of treatment in the previous 2 months. More than half of the children without functional constipation in elementary schools reported one of the Rome IV clinical manifestations. Finally, functional constipation has a broad clinical spectrum and also requires attention for the prevention and the management of its early clinical manifestations.

RESUMO Contexto: Diagnóstico precoce da constipação intestinal funcional é importante para reduzir suas consequências negativas para a saúde da criança e do adolescente. Objetivo: Descrever o espectro clínico da constipação intestinal funcional e o hábito intestinal de crianças recrutadas em escola de primeiro grau e de pacientes atendidos em ambulatório especializado de gastroenterologia pediátrica. Métodos: Estudo observacional que avaliou 452 alunos de duas escolas públicas da cidade de Osasco e 81 pacientes atendidos em ambulatório especializado em gastroenterologia pediátrica com constipação intestinal funcional. Todas as crianças tinham idade entre 6 e 12 anos. Foram utilizados os critérios de Roma IV (duas manifestações clínicas por mais de 1 mês) e a escala de Bristol. Resultados: Na escola constatou-se que 22,3% (101) das crianças apresentavam constipação intestinal funcional. Dentre os 351 alunos que não apresentavam constipação intestinal funcional, verificou-se que 182 (51,9%) apresentavam uma das manifestações clínicas do critério de Roma IV. A comparação das características clínicas das crianças com constipação intestinal funcional identificadas na escola (n=101) em relação aos pacientes atendidos no ambulatório especializado (n=81) evidenciou, respectivamente, as seguintes diferenças: menos de duas evacuações por semana (21,8% e 54,3%; P<0,001); um ou mais episódios de incontinência fecal por semana (14,8% e 53,1%; P<0,001) e comportamento de retenção (70,3% e 40,7%, P<0,001). Apenas 18 (17,8%) dos 101 alunos identificados na escola com constipação intestinal funcional havia realizado algum tratamento para esta doença nos últimos dois meses. Conclusão Conforme esperado, a frequência de manifestações clínicas mais graves foi maior nas crianças atendidas no ambulatório de gastroenterologia pediátrica. Apenas uma pequena parcela das crianças com constipação intestinal funcional identificadas nas escolas recebeu algum tratamento nos últimos dois meses. Mais da metade das crianças sem constipação intestinal funcional da escola apresentava pelo menos uma das manifestações do critério de Roma IV. Para finalizar, constipação intestinal funcional apresenta um amplo espectro clínico que também requer atenção para a sua prevenção e controle de suas manifestações clínicas precoces.

Prevalence of Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders in Brazilian Infants Seen in Private Pediatric Practices and Their Associated Factors.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the prevalence of the most frequent functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) in Brazilian infants seen in private pediatric clinics and their relationship with cesarean delivery, breastfeeding, and history of prematurity. METHODS: This cross-sectional study enrolled 5080 infants under 12 months old with routine visits in private pediatric clinics in Brazil. The mothers answered questions about the type of delivery, type of feeding (breast milk, infant formula, cow milk, mixed feeding), history of prematurity, and gastrointestinal symptoms. Rome IV criteria were used to diagnose FGIDs. RESULTS: The prevalence of infant regurgitation was 10.7% (487/4560); infant colic, 6.1% (131/2162); infant dyschezia, 4.0% (157/3895); functional constipation, 7.6% (341/4506); and functional diarrhea, 0.09% (2/2186). Prematurity was associated ( P < 0.05) with infant regurgitation (odds ratio [OR] = 1.41; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.05, 1.90), infant colic (OR = 1.97; 95% CI: 1.19, 3.24), infant dyschezia (OR = 1.64, 95% CI: 1.02, 2.64), and functional constipation (OR = 1.44; 95% CI: 1.02, 2.02). Prematurity was associated ( P < 0.001) with two or more FGIDs between 21 days and 150 days of age (OR = 3.06; 95% CI: 1.74, 5.37). CONCLUSION: FGIDs are common in infants seen in the private pediatric practice in Brazil. History of prematurity was associated with infant regurgitation, infant colic, functional dyschezia, and functional constipation.

Outcome of food intake and nutritional status after discontinuation of a cow’s-milk-free diet post negative oral food challenge in infants and children

Objective To evaluate the outcome of food intake and nutritional status post discontinuation of a cow’s-milk-free diet after a negative oral food challenge.Methods This was a prospective, uncontrolled study that evaluated food intake and nutritional status of a cohort of 80 infants and children under 5 years of age. Food intake and nutritional status were evaluated on the day of the oral food challenge test and after 30 days. Weight and height were measured on the day of the test and after 30 days.Results The mean age of the patients was 18.7 ± 12.4 months, and 58.7% were male. After discontinuation of the elimination diet, the children showed daily intake increases in (P < 0.001), protein (P < 0.001), carbohydrates (P = 0.042), calcium from foods (P < 0.001), calcium from foods and supplements (P < 0.001), phosphorus (P < 0.001), and vitamin D from foods (P = 0.006). The Z-scores (n = 76) on the day of the oral food challenge test and 30 days after restarting the consumption of cow’s milk were as follows: weight-for-age (P < 0.001) and height-for-age (P < 0.001), respectively.Conclusion Cow’s milk protein in the diet was associated with increased intake of energy, proteins, carbohydrates, calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D, in addition to an increase in the Z-scores for weight-for-age and height-for-age (aU)

Breastfeeding in infants seen in private pediatric practices and its relation with type of delivery and history of prematurity.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the type of milk used to feed infants seen in private pediatric practices in Brazil. To evaluate the relationship between breastfeeding, type of delivery, and history of prematurity. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional and observational study that included 4929 infants in the first year of life seen in private pediatric practices in the five geographic regions of Brazil. Mothers provided information about the type of milk used by their infant, the type of delivery (vaginal or cesarean), and whether the birth was premature. RESULTS: Breastfeeding was the only source of milk for 56.1% (1546/2755) of infants in the first six months of life and 32.9% (716/2174) in the second. Of the infants who received other types of milk besides breastfeeding, there was a predominance of infant formula in 98.6% and 93.8% of the infants, respectively, in the first and in the second six months of life. Whole cow's milk was used by 0.7% (20/2755) of infants in the first six months and by 4.1% (90/2174) of infants in the second (p < 0.001). In the first six months of life, breastfeeding as the only type of milk was associated with vaginal delivery (OR = 1.79; p < 0.001) and not having a history of prematurity (OR = 2.48; p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Breastfeeding was the only milk source for more than half of infants before 180 days of life. Birth by cesarean section and history of prematurity were negatively associated with breastfeeding as the only source of milk used in infant feeding.

Feeding difficulties in children fed a cows' milk elimination diet.

A cross-sectional study compared feeding difficulties in children aged 2-5 years fed a cows' milk elimination diet due to food allergy with a control group on an unrestricted diet. All data were obtained online. Specific questionnaires evaluated three types of feeding difficulties: avoidant eating, picky eating and feeding problems. The median scores of feeding difficulties in the elimination diet (n 146) and control (n 109) groups were, respectively: picky eating (31 v. 27; P = 0·148), avoidant eating (3 v. 3; P = 0·508) and feeding problems (38 v. 34, P = 0·032). Picky eating was more frequent in the elimination diet (35·4 %) than in the controls (23·3 %; P = 0·042), but no difference was observed for avoidant eating (23·9 % v. 20·4 %, P = 0·508) and feeding problems (32·1 % v. 28·4 %, P = 0·541). Picky eating was associated with lower values of weight-for-age z-scores in both groups. Multivariate analyses identified associations of the three feeding difficulties with previous food refusal and/or inappetence in the elimination diet group. Current constipation and anticipatory gagging were associated with feeding difficulties in both groups. In conclusion, children on an elimination diet presented higher frequency of picky eating and higher scores of feeding problems. Picky eating was associated with lower values of weight-for-age z-scores. Food refusal and/or inappetence as clinical manifestations of food allergy were associated with feeding difficulties at the moment of the survey. Current constipation and anticipatory gagging were associated with picky eating, avoidant eating and feeding problems.