New concepts in pediatric nutrition

摘要

The goal of nutrition is to provide a diet optimal to meet an individual's specific physiologic needs at each life stage and to optimize performance. When feeding the puppy and kitten, we strive to supply the building blocks for optimal growth, health, and disease resistance. Despite this understanding, the nutritional requirements of the growing puppy and kitten have largely been established by determining the nutrient level at which maximum growth occurs without much consideration for other health factors such as immune function, future reproductive performance, physical capabilities, or disease resistance. As our understanding of nutrition has expanded, it has become evident that the nutritional influences of early life are the foundation for future health and longevity. New research in pediatric nutrition seeks to define nutrient requirements using indicators beyond that of achieving maximal growth and also to understand the impact of early nutrition on lifelong health. With this awareness, it should be no surprise that the nutritional management of the canine and feline neonate begins before birth.