Nutritional care for extremely preterm infants has advanced, shifting from short-term survival goals to optimising neurodevelopment and long-term health. The current focus is on specialised, evidence-based nutrition strategies, addressing their unique needs. Ongoing research aims to refine these interventions for better growth and health outcomes.
Abstract
The evolution of nutritional care in preterm infants, particularly those classified as extremely preterm, has undergone significant advancements in recent years. These infants, born at less than 28 weeks of gestation, face unique challenges related to their elevated nutrient requirements, underdeveloped organ systems and minimal reserves, posing a need for timely and specialised nutritional strategies. Historically, the nutritional management of preterm infants focussed on short-term goals to promote survival. In recent years, the focus has shifted to the quality of nutrient provision to optimise neurodevelopment and longer-term health outcomes. This review highlights the shift from a generalised nutritional approach to a robust, evidence-based approach for preterm infants, acknowledging the intricate interplay between nutrition, holistic care and developmental outcomes. As neonatal care continues to evolve, ongoing research will refine nutritional interventions, optimise growth and enhance the long-term health outcomes of these vulnerable infants.
Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics, Volume 38, Issue 1, February 2025. Read More