Tips on nutrition and feeding standards for premature infants

Premature babies are babies born before 37 weeks of pregnancy, weighing between 500g and 2500g. Compared with ordinary newborns, premature babies are more fragile and need more careful care and protection. When facing premature babies, new parents are usually at a loss. Although premature babies develop differently from children of the same age, don't worry too much. Generally speaking, premature babies can catch up with the developmental standards of children of the same age after 12 months. So, how to feed premature babies?

1. Nutritional needs of premature infants

The nutritional needs of premature infants are an issue that medical professionals are constantly exploring and thinking about. The following is a brief description of some of the key nutrients required by premature infants and their functions:

1. Protein: Protein is an important nutrient for body building and tissue maintenance. Premature babies need more protein to support their growth and development because their organs and tissues are not fully developed. The protein in breast milk is easily absorbed, and sometimes formula milk or other supplements are needed to meet additional protein needs.

2. Fat: Fat is one of the main sources of energy for premature infants and an important component of brain development. Premature infants usually have higher fat requirements, especially polyunsaturated fatty acids such as DHA and ARA, which are essential for the neurodevelopment and vision development of premature infants.

3. Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates are the main source of energy for the body. Premature infants need sufficient carbohydrates to support their growth and development. Premature infants have stronger glycosidase activity, which promotes the decomposition of polyglucose.

4. Vitamins and minerals: Premature infants are at a critical stage of organ development and therefore need the support of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, iron, calcium, zinc and vitamin E. These nutrients are essential for bone development, immune function and antioxidant protection.

5. Human milk oligosaccharides: Human milk oligosaccharides are special components in breast milk that play an important role in the growth and immune system development of premature infants. Human milk oligosaccharides can promote the growth of beneficial bacteria, enhance the immunity of premature infants, and prevent diseases and infections.

2. Feeding of premature infants

1. Feeding time

Generally, sugar water is started within 6 to 12 hours after birth, and breastfeeding is started within 24 hours. For those who are underweight or in poor general condition, such as those who have difficulty breathing, feeding can be appropriately delayed and intravenous rehydration can be given.

2. Milk feeding amount and interval

Initial feeding amount: After a premature baby is born, he may only be able to take in a few milliliters of milk at first, and may even get nutrition through an intravenous or gastric tube. This is because the digestive system of a premature baby needs time to adapt to feeding. The doctor and nutritionist will determine the initial feeding amount based on the actual situation of the baby.

Calculation of feeding milk amount and feeding method:

① Initial milk volume: 10-20ml/Kg per day, with a feeding interval of 2-3 hours, and gradually increase the milk volume.

Gradually increase the amount of milk: As the digestive system of premature babies gradually matures, their milk intake will be gradually increased. Usually, the daily increase in milk intake is about 10-20 ml until the amount that meets the nutritional needs of premature babies is reached.

② Final milk volume: generally reaches 150-180ml/Kg per day. Breastfeeding is the first choice, followed by premature infant formula or adding breast milk fortifier.

Feeding interval: Premature babies need more frequent feedings because their stomach capacity is smaller and their digestive system is not fully developed. At first, they may be fed every 2-3 hours until the baby's stomach capacity gradually increases and the feeding interval can be extended to 3-4 hours.

3. General principles of feeding premature infants

Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding is the best way to feed premature babies. Breast milk contains important proteins, fats, vitamins and minerals, which help promote the physical development of premature babies and improve their immunity. If the premature baby is unable to suck after birth or the mother cannot provide enough breast milk, you can consider using milk powder specially recommended by the doctor to feed the baby.

Close monitoring: Premature babies have unstable respiratory and digestive systems, and may experience unstable swallowing and vomiting. Close monitoring is required during feeding. To prevent these risks, the baby can be fed in a side-lying position. At the same time, pay attention to the posture of the baby's head and neck. When feeding, be careful not to feed continuously. Stop feeding for about 1 minute to let the baby breathe properly before continuing.

Individualized Adjustment: Each premature baby’s situation is unique, so the feeding amount and interval need to be individualized based on the baby’s growth and development, weight, nutritional needs and the doctor’s advice.

In short, scientific and correct feeding is an important factor in ensuring the healthy growth and development of premature infants. Understanding the special nutritional needs of premature infants and the importance of breastfeeding and formula feeding is the key to providing the best care for premature infants. Paying attention to the nutritional needs and scientific feeding of premature infants is not only the responsibility of professional medical staff, but also the responsibility of every member of the family.

The above is only my personal opinion. The actual situation of each child is different. When formulating a feeding plan, you must consult a professional doctor and adopt a reasonable approach to protect your child's health. (Kang Huiling, Shijiazhuang Maternal and Child Health Hospital)