Complementary feeding in preterm infants: a position paper by Italian neonatal, paediatric and paediatric...

Area of Science:

• Neonatal nutrition
• Pediatric gastroenterology
• Developmental pediatrics

Background:

• The first 1000 days of life are critical for growth, neurodevelopment, and preventing adverse health outcomes.
• Early nutritional management is paramount for preterm infants, impacting both short- and long-term health.
• Current evidence-based guidelines for complementary feeding in preterm neonates, particularly those with extremely low birth weight or gestational age, are insufficient.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current evidence on complementary feeding in preterm neonates.
• To establish joint recommendations from leading pediatric societies (SIP, SIN, SIGENP).
• To reduce variability in professional approaches and timing of complementary feeding for preterm infants.

Main Methods:

• A narrative review of existing scientific literature.
• Synthesis of evidence regarding complementary feeding practices for preterm neonates.
• Development of consensus-based recommendations by joint pediatric societies.

Main Results:

• Established the critical role of early nutrition in preterm infant outcomes.
• Identified a lack of specific, evidence-based complementary feeding guidelines for vulnerable preterm populations.
• Formulated shared recommendations to standardize care.

Conclusions:

• Complementary feeding timing and composition are crucial for preterm infant development.
• Standardized, evidence-based recommendations are needed to guide healthcare providers and families.
• This position paper aims to bridge the gap in current guidelines for preterm neonates.