Growth and dietary status of preterm and term infants during the first two years of life

Abstract

This study compared growth, food intake and feeding problems in appropriate weight for gestational age sequela-free preterm and term infants at 4, 8, 12 and 24 months adjusted age. Growth deficits were frequent in the preterm infants, especially during the first year of life with a tendency to "catch up" during the second year. Normal head growth and arm muscle area were documented in this selected group of infants but triceps skinfold thicknesses were deficient, especially during the first year. Food consumption patterns and energy intake differed with higher energy intake in the preterm group. Feeding problems were only slightly more frequent in the preterm infants. The only factor associated with energy intake in the preterm infants was duration of neonatal hospital stay. Weight percentile was associated with birthweight and socioeconomic status in term infants, and birthweight, hospital stay and "fussy eater" in preterms at specific ages.