What is one effect of prolonged NPO status in infants?

Prolonged NPO (nil per os, or nothing by mouth) status in infants can lead to significant gastrointestinal issues, and one such effect is the loss of gut villi. The gut villi are tiny, finger-like projections in the intestines responsible for nutrient absorption. When an infant is not fed for an extended period, the intestines are not stimulated by food intake, which can result in atrophy of the intestinal mucosa and a subsequent decrease in the number and height of these villi. This atrophy diminishes the surface area available for nutrient absorption, impacting the infant's overall nutrition and health.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the effects of prolonged NPO status. For instance, increased gut microflora generally requires the introduction of food, as gut flora thrives on nutrients provided by digestion. Decreased susceptibility to allergies would typically be associated with the introduction of certain foods or breastfeeding, while improved enzyme activity is contingent upon the presence of substrates that stimulate enzyme production and function, which does not occur during periods of prolonged fasting. Understanding these effects is vital for managing the nutritional needs and support of infants in neonatal intensive care settings.