Research on the Role of Fat Emulsion in Nutritional Support for Neonates

Fat emulsions are an important component of parenteral nutrition for neonates and are essential for meeting their energy and essential fatty acid requirements. This article reviews the research progress of fat emulsions in neonatal parenteral nutrition, focusing on their role, types, clinical applications, and future research directions. Traditional soybean oil fat emulsions are gradually being replaced by novel fat emulsions due to their limitations, such as medium-chain fat emulsions, olive oil fat emulsions, fish oil fat emulsions, and multi-oil fat emulsions. These newer fat emulsions have shown advantages in providing a more balanced fatty acid ratio, reducing the risk of cholestasis, and improving immune function. However, their long-term safety, effects on the growth and development of different preterm infants, and effects on other neonatal complications still need to be further investigated. This article also discusses the clinical application of fat emulsions, such as dose, start time, and type selection, and proposes future research directions to better guide clinical practice and improve the outcome of parenteral nutritional support in neonates.