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Development of the infant intestine: implications for nutrition support

Coryn E Commare1, Kelly A Tappenden

  • 1Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA.

Nutrition in Clinical Practice : Official Publication of the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition
|March 22, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Optimal nutrition for preterm infants is crucial due to rising preterm birth rates. This review examines immature intestinal functions in premature infants and their impact on feeding strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal nutrition
  • Gastrointestinal physiology
  • Developmental biology

Background:

  • Preterm birth rates have risen over the last 25 years, increasing the need for specialized infant nutrition.
  • The gastrointestinal tract of preterm infants exhibits unique developmental and physiological characteristics.
  • Understanding these immaturities is key to optimizing nutritional support.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the intestinal development and physiology of preterm infants.
  • To emphasize the immature functions of the preterm intestine.
  • To explore the implications for current nutrition therapies.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on preterm infant intestinal development.
  • Analysis of physiological data related to preterm gut function.
  • Synthesis of information on nutrition interventions for preterm infants.

Main Results:

  • Preterm intestines have reduced absorptive capacity and altered motility.
  • Immature enzymatic functions impact nutrient digestion and absorption.
  • Specific nutritional strategies are required to address these functional deficits.

Conclusions:

  • Optimizing nutrition for preterm infants requires a deep understanding of their unique intestinal physiology.
  • Current nutrition therapies must be tailored to accommodate the immature functions of the preterm gut.
  • Further research into targeted nutritional interventions can improve outcomes for preterm infants.

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