In Southeast Asia and across the globe, childhood undernutrition remains one of the most urgent health challenges, impacting not just physical development but long-term well-being. Now, a groundbreaking study by global healthcare leader Abbott is shedding light on how nutrition supplements, combined with professional dietary counseling, can significantly improve a child’s growth and health.
The results of the SPROUT Study (Supporting Pediatric Growth and Health Outcomes) provide compelling evidence: when undernourished children aged 2 to 5 received two servings of nutritional supplementation per day—alongside dietary guidance—they showed double the height gain and 50% more increase in lean mass compared to those who received counseling alone.
Inside the SPROUT Study: Science Meets Everyday Family Life
What's Inside
Conducted over eight months in Vietnam, this randomized, controlled trial tracked 330 children who were either undernourished or mildly stunted. All families received dietary advice tailored to their child’s needs, but only half were given two daily servings of an oral nutrition supplement. The other half maintained their habitual milk intake.
The goal? To measure not just height improvements but “quality growth”—a holistic look at lean mass (bones, muscles, organs), bone density, energy levels, appetite, and immunity.
The findings were remarkable:
- 📏 Height gain doubled in children receiving supplements
- 💪 Lean mass grew by 50%, with strong bones and longer legs
- 🔋 Energy levels increased, as reported by caregivers
- 🍽️ Appetites improved, with better vitamin D and K levels (essential for calcium absorption and bone strength)
- 🦠 37% fewer sick days and missed school days
According to Dr. Mandy Ow, Senior Clinical Scientist at Abbott Nutrition R&D Singapore, “This study emphasizes that proper nutrition isn’t just about getting taller. It’s about resilience, strength, and overall well-being.”
Experts & Celeb Moms Sound Off on Early Nutrition
At the launch of the new growth-supporting formulation, leading pediatric experts gathered for a dynamic discussion on early childhood health. The panel included:
- 👨⚕️ Dr. Jose Dimaano Jr., Abbott Nutrition Medical Director, Asia Pacific
- 👩⚕️ Dr. Jennifer Olay, Pediatric Gastroenterologist
- 👩🔬 Dr. Mandy Ow, Abbott Nutrition R&D Singapore
- 🌟 Celebrity moms Chesca Kramer and Dimples Romana, both PediaSure Plus ambassadors and passionate advocates for children’s health
They explored how nutritional gaps in young children can be overcome with science-based nutrition supplements, especially during critical development periods—like the first five years of life.
“Nutrition lays the foundation for future success,” said Dr. Olay. “It doesn’t just affect physical growth—it also builds strength, immunity, and emotional resilience.”
The PeptiGro Advantage: What’s in the Supplement?
To bring the study’s benefits to real families, Abbott launched a new formulation featuring the PeptiGro System—a smart combo of key nutrients that support optimal childhood growth:
- ✅ Natural Vitamin K2 – Helps bones absorb and use calcium
- ✅ Arginine – Stimulates growth hormones and cell regeneration
- ✅ Casein Phosphopeptides (CPPs) – Boosts calcium absorption from food and supplements
Together, these ingredients create a powerful profile that targets both visible and invisible growth markers. Think stronger bones, sharper immunity, better nutrient absorption—and yes, taller little ones!
Where to Find These Nutrition Supplements
Parents eager to support their child’s growth can now find the newly formulated nutrition supplements in major supermarkets, pharmacies, and online retailers such as Shopee and Lazada. For added peace of mind, they’re encouraged to consult with their pediatricians and explore the science behind the formula via the Alagang Abbott website .
Final Word: Science + Nutrition = Real Growth
Undernutrition may seem invisible at first—but its effects can be lasting. Thanks to modern science and thoughtful dietary support, families now have access to proven solutions. This study shows that combining nutritional guidance with the right nutrition supplements can dramatically improve a child’s physical and functional growth, immune defenses, and overall vitality.
It’s not just about catching up in height—it’s about setting your child up for a healthier, happier future.
