Which type of feeding is typically recommended for premature infants in the NICU?

The recommendation for enteral feeding, beginning with breast milk, for premature infants in the NICU is based on several important factors. Premature infants have immature digestive systems and are typically unable to tolerate full volume feeds right away. Breast milk is considered ideal for several reasons: it provides essential nutrients, promotes growth, and contains antibodies that help protect against infections.

Breast milk is also easier for these infants to digest compared to formula, particularly because it adjusts to meet their specific nutritional needs. This method of feeding supports the development of the gut and helps establish a healthy microbiome, which is crucial for long-term health outcomes.

In contrast, options like formula feeding may not provide the full range of benefits that breast milk offers, while parenteral nutrition, although sometimes necessary for those who cannot initially feed orally, is not a preferred long-term solution due to its associated risks. Solid food introduction is not suitable for premature infants, as they are not developmentally ready for solids until they reach an appropriate gestational age. Therefore, enteral feeding starting with breast milk stands as the recommended approach for premature infants in the NICU.