As per protocol, children with edema, and/or medical complications, and/or poor appetite were fed locally-prepared F-75 therapeutic milk every two hours for 48 hours (stabilization phase) while their medical complications were treated. After completion of the initial 48 hours, children were fed alternatively F-75 and locally-prepared F-100 therapeutic milk six times a day for about 48 hours (transition phase). After the transition phase, children were fed F-100 and locally-produced lipid-based therapeutic food (TF) with the aims of initiating rapid weight gain (rehabilitation phase). Children with normal appetite and free of medical complications entered the rehabilitation phase from the day of admission. All children received a course of broad spectrum antibiotic.