Effect of Select Nutraceuticals on Transitioning from Tube Feeding to Oral Feeding in Infants

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of oral feeding readiness assessments on nutraceutical therapies in infants admitted to neonatal intensive care units. Nutraceuticals are increasingly being used to promote newborn health. However, their effects on feeding transitions and developmental outcomes have not been thoroughly studied. Therefore, this study was conducted on 210 infants to explore the effect of nutraceutical therapies on the rate of successful eating transitions and the incidence of feeding-related problems. Data on age, gender, birth weight, delivery technique, and nutraceutical use were also collected. Successful transitions, delayed transitions, and complications such as aspiration and feeding intolerance were recorded. The findings indicated that infants who received nutraceutical therapies achieved a higher success rate in transitioning to feeding, with a statistically significant difference in outcomes compared to those who did not. Probiotics improved gastrointestinal well-being and decreased challenges during dietary changes. Omega-3 supplements and vitamin D exhibited favorable effects, aiding smooth transitions and reducing hospital readmissions. This study revealed that age and feeding technique significantly influenced the success of transitions. Incorporating nutraceuticals into feeding protocols can result in better outcomes in neonatal ICUs.