• Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition
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• v.11 no.sup1
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• pp.111-116
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• 2008

Immunonutrition is the provision of specific nutrients that modulate the activity of the immune system. Several nutrients including arginine, glutamine, nucleotides, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and prebiotics can be provided to enhance immunity in critically ill patients. Supplying immunonutrition to critically-ill children, better prognosis and shortening of the hospital stay are expected from its immuno-modulating effects. Therefore, immune-enhancing enteral and parenteral formulas can be recommended in children with severe illness.