Nutrition Bytes

Children and infants with congenital heart disease (CHD) often have disturbances in growth and development. Recent research suggests that this is due mainly to inadequate caloric intake and increased energy expenditure as compared to normal children (1). This presents a significant problem because if left untreated these children can develop permanent disabilities and poorer outcomes after corrective surgery. In order to treat this problem, a systematic approach must be used to identify the specific reasons for this failure to thrive, to develop a strategy for a structured feeding program, and to educate parents as to the best ways to feed their children (2).