Enhancer for Premature Infants' Breast Milk

Premature babies, particularly those with low birth weight, often require additional nutrients to support their growth and development. One way this is achieved is through the use of Human Milk Fortifiers (HMF).

HMF are multi-nutrient fortifiers that supplement breast milk, primarily cow-milk based. They contain the right amount of calcium, protein, carbohydrate, phosphate, vitamins, and trace elements to help meet the needs of growing preterm babies.

However, it's important to note that microwave ovens should not be used to warm HMF as it might result in serious burns. Instead, they should be mixed with human milk only, and not water or any other liquid.

The use of HMF can have benefits for premature babies. For instance, for infants weighing between 1251-1500g, breast milk alone may not be sufficient. In such cases, the addition of HMF can help bridge the nutritional gap. Similarly, for infants weighing between 2000-2500g, the addition of HMF may benefit those showing poor growth.

Exclusively feeding premature babies a human milk-based diet has lower rates of necrotising enterocolitis than a diet of cow milk products. This is a significant advantage, as necrotising enterocolitis is a serious gastrointestinal disease associated with the use of bovine fortifiers. Other associated risks include diarrhea, bowel obstruction, gastroesophageal reflux, and even necrotising enterocolitis.

It's essential to monitor the side effects of HMF when giving them to premature infants. Contamination of breast milk is possible when using bovine fortifiers because human milk fortifier powder is not sterile. Additionally, an increase in the risk of diabetes mellitus and allergies is seen when premature babies are introduced to cows' milk protein. Therefore, HMF should not be fed to preemies that are susceptible to immune problems without medical supervision.

It's worth mentioning that artificial feeding causes an increase in gut permeability and a decrease in lactase activity, a marker of intestinal maturity. This underscores the importance of breast milk, even when fortified, in the diet of premature infants.

HMF can typically be purchased through specialized medical supply companies, neonatal care pharmacies, or hospitals that provide preterm infant nutrition products. They are not usually available over-the-counter in regular stores. A single ounce of HMF has 24 kcal, making it suitable for all infants weighing less than 2000g.

In conclusion, Human Milk Fortifiers play a crucial role in ensuring the nutritional needs of premature infants are met. While they offer benefits, it's essential to use them responsibly and with careful consideration of potential risks.