What is the energy requirement for the growing neonate?

• A. 60-80 kcal/kg/day
• B. 90-120 kcal/kg/day
• C. 130-160 kcal/kg/day
• D. 180-200 kcal/kg/day

Answer: (B)

Neonates grow quickly and have a high metabolic rate, so their energy needs must cover both basic maintenance and the substantial cost of tissue growth. The amount of energy required per kilogram is set to support this balance, resulting in a target range that is commonly taught for healthy term infants. Sitting in the vicinity of ninety to one hundred twenty kilocalories per kilogram per day provides enough calories to support weight gain and organ and tissue development without delivering excessive calories that could lead to unwanted fat gain or metabolic stress. If intake falls below this range, growth can lag; if intake far exceeds it, that excess energy isn’t usually needed for a healthy term neonate and could have downsides.