Timing of Intravenous Nutrition in Newborns, Infants, and Children: Current Evidence, Body Clock Effects, and New Approaches

The optimal timing of parenteral nutrition initiation varies by age and clinical context.

• Early initiation of parenteral nutrition is standard for very preterm and very low birth weight infants.
• Delaying parenteral nutrition may lead to improved outcomes in critically ill children.
• Continuous parenteral nutrition is commonly used in neonates and critically ill children to reduce metabolic fluctuations.
• Cyclic parenteral nutrition is preferred for older infants and clinically stable children to promote mobility.
• There is limited evidence on the clinical implications of aligning parenteral nutrition delivery with natural body rhythms.
• Future studies are needed to determine the optimal timing and infusion patterns for various pediatric populations.

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