Complementary Feeding Practices in a Cohort of Italian Late Preterm Infants

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Neonatology
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Preterm infants have unique nutritional needs and are susceptible to growth alterations.
• Limited data exist on complementary feeding practices in this population.
• Late preterm infants (34-36 weeks gestation) require specific attention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the timing and content of complementary feeding in late preterm infants.
• To identify factors influencing the introduction of solid foods.
• To inform evidence-based feeding recommendations for this vulnerable group.

Main Methods:

• Prospective, observational study of mothers with late preterm infants.
• Data collected via phone interviews at 3, 6, and 12 months postpartum.
• Inquired about infant feeding mode, timing, and types of solid foods introduced.

Main Results:

• Mean age for complementary feeding introduction was 5.7 ± 0.7 months.
• Most infants were first introduced to low energy and/or low protein-dense foods.
• Early introduction of fruit was associated with a 1.6-month earlier start to complementary feeding.

Conclusions:

• Complementary feeding practices in late preterm infants often involve low-nutrient-density foods initially.
• Fruit introduction may accelerate the initiation of complementary feeding.
• Specific guidelines are needed to optimize nutrition for late preterm infants.