Post-discharge nutrition for the preterm infant

Abstract

The preterm neonate, especially if born extremely premature and at a very low birthweight, is at risk of malnutrition postnatally. Lower stores of nutrients at birth, increased nutritional requirements, an immature gut and neonatal morbidities can mean that by the time the infant is ready for discharge they will have accumulated significant deficits in macro and micronutrients. The aim of nutrition post-discharge is to protect against nutritional deficiencies and support growth and development. Preterm infants discharged on breastmilk will need to be supplemented with vitamins A and D and iron. Preterm infants discharged on formula may require a nutrient enriched post-discharge formula which will provide increased nutrition until they can take sufficient volumes from a standard term formula.