Understanding Metabolic Risks in Infants Aged 2 to 16 Weeks Through Meal Tests Using Human Milk and Infant Formula

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to understand how young infants metabolize different meals and to develop clinical tools that identify two metabolic phenotypes metabolic thriftiness and metabolic flexibility. These phenotypes are characterized by differences in energy expenditure and substrate oxidation after consuming meals, which may relate to risks for obesity and other traits. Infant participants will receive two meal tests one with human milk and one with infant formula. Both meals will be given inside a metabolic chamber where energy expenditure and respiratory exchange ratio will be measured before and after feeding. The amount of food provided will be about 20% of the infants predicted energy needs, typically 4 to 6 ounces, based on age and sex-specific guidelines. Participants will undergo assessments including energy expenditure and respiratory exchange ratio measurements around 60 minutes after each meal. They will also complete a DXA measurement. The study involves a screening visit and two clinic visits within 14 days. Researchers will analyze changes in energy expenditure and metabolic flexibility to identify the two phenotypes in infants aged 2 to less than 17 weeks.

Studying Phenotypic Risks for Obesity and Underlying Traits in Young Infants