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Human Milk Fortification: A Practical Analysis of Current Evidence
Erynn M Bergner1, Sarah N Taylor2, Laura A Gollins3
1Section of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 1200 North Everett Drive, ETNP 7504 Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA. Electronic address: https://twitter.com/ErynnBergner.
Human milk fortification is crucial for very low birth weight (VLBW) infants, providing essential nutrients for development. This review covers milk variability, fortification methods, and clinical considerations for preterm infant nutrition.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal nutrition
- Pediatric gastroenterology
Background:
- Human milk (HM) is recommended for very low birth weight (VLBW) infants.
- Fortification of HM is essential for supporting preterm infant growth and development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the variability in human milk composition.
- To review current practices and controversies in human milk fortification for VLBW infants.
- To explore future innovations in HM fortification.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on human milk composition and fortification.
- Discussion of clinical practices and controversies regarding HM fortification.
- Analysis of single- and multi-nutrient fortifiers.
Main Results:
- Significant variability exists between maternal and donor human milk (DHM).
- Various fortification strategies are employed using single- and multi-nutrient fortifiers.
- Clinical controversies include fortification timing and feeding volumes.
Conclusions:
- Optimizing HM fortification is critical for VLBW infant outcomes.
- Further research is needed to address clinical controversies and guide future innovations.
- Personalized fortification approaches may enhance nutritional support for preterm infants.
