Monday, June 30, 2008

Food for Thought

We thought our nutrition sponsors would be interested in seeing exactly what a gift the children in our nutrition program are getting through high quality formula. Recently we did an evaluation between a local brand of formula and Nestle Nestogen formula, which is what we send to the majority of the orphanages we partner with for nutrition. We would like to send another HUGE thank you to everyone who makes our nutrition program possible, as it truly is giving so many precious babies the absolute best start in life.
Although both formulas were similar in calories, fat, and iron content, we found a significant difference in the micro-nutrients that are so vital to good health and healing. Below is a sample of our findings, with the local formula's content listed first, versus Nestle Nestogen. Amounts listed per 100 grams of formula powder:

Linoleic acid: Omega 6 fatty acids, essential to the diet for growth and healing.
3,000 mg versus 16,000 mg

Protein: Vital for growth and cell repair.
12 grams versus 20.2 grams

Calcium: Needed for growth, healthy teeth and bones, also fights absorption of lead.
310 mg versus 735 mg

Phosphorus: Helps with the synthesis of carbohydrates and protein, formation of bones and teeth, cell repair.
220 mg versus 600 mg

Vitamin B1: Helps convert carbohydrates into energy, also essential to functioning of the heart, muscles, and nervous system.
400 mcg versus 700 mcg

Vitamin B2: Needed for general good health, also helps metabolize carbohydrates and protein.
500 mcg versus 1100 mcg

Niacin: Helps convert food to energy, assists with functioning of digestive system, skin and nerves, an essential to the diet.
3,500 mcg versus 130,000 mcg

Vitamin B6: Helps metabolize protein, helps immune system produce antibodies, aids in production of red blood cells.
190 mcg versus 930 mcg

Pantothenic acid: For metabolism of carbohydrates, protein and fat.
1,700 mcg versus 3,300 mcg

Copper: Helps in production of red blood cells, and keeps blood vessels, nerves, immune system and bones healthy.
300 mcg versus 5,600 mcg

Zinc: Helps with immune system and healing, helps to fight absorption of lead.
2.5 mg versus 5.6 mg

While that's too small amounts to try and remember, hopefully you can see that they all add up to a very big difference for the children. THANK YOU!!!

Jan Champoux
Nutrition Director