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Food and microbiological problems in the newborn: data and practice
B A Wharton1, S E Balmer, M F Noy
1Sorrento Maternity Hospital, Birmingham, UK.
Acta Paediatrica (Oslo, Norway : 1992). Supplement
|December 1, 1994
Summary
Human milk offers advantages for intensive care newborns. Current infant formulas show limited success in mimicking breast milk
Area of Science:
- Neonatal nutrition
- Infection control in newborns
Background:
- The relationship between feeding practices and infections in newborns is critical for infant health.
- Human milk is recognized for its benefits, but its protective effects can be complex to replicate.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the impact of food, nutrition, and feeding practices on neonatal infections.
- To evaluate current feeding strategies and their implications for infant health outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on feeding practices and infection in newborns.
- Analysis of the benefits and risks associated with different feeding modalities.
Main Results:
- Human milk, raw or pasteurized, provides advantages for infants in intensive care.
- Attempts to replicate breast milk's microbiological benefits in infant formulas have had limited success.
- Concerns exist regarding breast milk fortifiers potentially diminishing protective properties.
- Nasojejunal feeding may increase upper small bowel bacterial contamination.
- Milk kitchen monitoring and feed handling are crucial for neonatal care.
- Attention to the fecal-oral route is necessary to limit nosocomial infections.
Conclusions:
- Human milk remains a preferred option for high-risk newborns.
- Further research is needed to optimize infant formulas and feeding practices.
- Strict hygiene protocols are essential in neonatal units to prevent infections.