Nutrient retention in preterm infants fed standard infant formulas

Area of Science:

• Nutritional Science
• Neonatology
• Pediatric Gastroenterology

Background:

• Preterm infants have unique nutritional needs for growth.
• Standard infant formulas are used for preterm infants after hospital discharge.
• Rickets and zinc deficiency are potential risks for preterm infants.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare nitrogen, mineral, and zinc balance in preterm infants fed two standard formulas.
• To assess if formula composition meets estimated fetal requirements for preterm infants.

Main Methods:

• Nitrogen, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, and zinc balance studies were conducted.
• Infants were fed Similac With Iron and Similac With Whey + Iron.

Main Results:

• Nitrogen and magnesium balance were similar and met estimated fetal requirements with both formulas.
• Higher absorption and retention of calcium, phosphorus, and zinc were observed with Similac With Iron.
• Retention of calcium, phosphorus, and zinc was inadequate to meet estimated fetal requirements for both formulas.

Conclusions:

• Similac With Iron demonstrates superior absorption and retention of key minerals and zinc compared to Similac With Whey + Iron.
• Neither formula fully meets the critical mineral and zinc requirements for optimal growth in preterm infants.
• Further research into optimizing preterm infant formula composition is warranted to prevent deficiencies.