High-Dose Human Milk Feedings Decrease Oxidative Stress in Premature Infant.

Area of Science:

• Neonatal research
• Biochemistry
• Pediatric nutrition

Background:

• Premature infants face heightened oxidative stress, risking severe morbidities.
• High-dose human milk (HM) intake may mitigate these risks and reduce oxidative stress.
• This study investigates oxidative stress markers in infants fed HM versus preterm formula (PF).

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare oxidative stress via urinary F2-isoprostane levels in premature infants.
• To assess the impact of human milk (HM) versus preterm formula (PF) on oxidative stress over 21 days of life (DOL).
• To control for perinatal oxidative stress exposures like bovine-based human milk fortifier (HMF) or PF introduction.

Main Methods:

• A quasi-experimental design involved 22 premature infants in HM and PF groups.
• Serial urine samples were collected on days 1, 7, 14, and 21.
• Urinary F2-isoprostane concentrations were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs).

Main Results:

• Median F2-isoprostane concentrations decreased significantly in the HM group (P=.003).
• Median F2-isoprostane concentrations increased significantly in the PF group (P=.01).
• Perinatal oxidant exposures and HMF introduction did not alter the findings.

Conclusions:

• Predominantly HM feedings are linked to reduced oxidative stress in premature infants.
• Preterm formula (PF) feedings are associated with increased oxidative stress.
• These findings hold even when controlling for HMF or PF introduction exposures.