A controlled trial of glucose versus glucose and amino acids in premature infants

A controlled study comparing two intravenous fluid regimens was performed in sick, premature infants. The regimens were isocaloric at 60 calories/kg/day, one providing glucose alone, the other glucose plus 2.5 gm/kg of amino acids. There was no difference in changes in body weight between the two groups; infants receiving glucose alone were in negative nitrogen balance; those receiving glucose plus amino acids were in positive nitrogen balance. Plasma amino acid values were compared to published, postprandial normal values. The TEAA and TAA of infants receiving amino acids were not different from normal. Values of TEAA and TAA of infants receiving glucose alone were significantly lower. Essential fatty acid deficiency developed in infants receiving amino acids but not in those receiving glucose alone. It is concluded that the glucose plus amino acid regimen results in anabolism without undue metabolic costs.