Postdischarge Nutrition of Preterm Infants: Breastfeeding, Complementary Foods, Eating Behavior and Feeding Problems

In preterm infants, the key goals of nutrition are to establish adequate growth and to contribute to appropriate neurodevelopmental outcome. In this context, the postdischarge period is crucial to establish catch-up growth and avoid wrong metabolic programming caused by overfeeding. Breastfeeding is strongly recommended, and for preterm infants the European Society for Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition (ESPGHAN) suggests fortifying breastmilk after discharge up to term in appropriate growing infants and up to 3 months in growth-retarded infants. If breastfeeding is not possible, postdischarge formula should be fed at least up to term. However, the effects of a higher nutrient density and energy administered by breastmilk fortification or postdischarge formula on growth and neurodevelopmental outcome are limited or missing but might have a positive impact on lung function and vision later in life. Moreover, little is known on the optimal timepoint to introduce solids in preterm infants. Data from observational studies have shown that preterm infants are weaned early in life around 13-15 weeks of corrected age. The degree of prematurity and use of formula are major determinants for early complementary feeding introduction. It is emphasized that there should be a strong focus on the infant's anatomical, physiological, and oral-motor readiness to receive foods other than breast milk or formula. Feeding problems and preterm's eating difficulties are common, and especially in the very immature population approximately 30% show oro-motor dysfunction or avoidant behavior at 3 months. An individualized approach according to the infant's neurological ability and nutritional status seems to be the best practice when introducing complementary feeding in preterm infants especially in the absence of evidence-based guidelines.