Micronutrient Intakes and Health Outcomes in Preterm Infants

Abstract

Deficiency or excess of specific micronutrients is common in preterm infants and can have many effects on health outcomes, ranging from life-threatening electrolyte disturbances to long-term effects on growth, brain development, bone health, and the risk of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). Iron supplementation of low birth weight infants reduces the risk of behavioral problems. However, due to the risk of adverse effects, iron supplementation of very preterm infants in the NICU should be individualized, considering birth weight, postnatal age, diet, and serum ferritin concentrations. Sodium intakes should be minimized during the first 3 days of life in very preterm infants to avoid hypernatremia. However, after 4 days of age, sodium supplements can reduce hyponatremia and improve growth. Adequate parenteral and enteral calcium and phosphorus intakes are crucial for the prevention of osteopenia of prematurity. Screening of serum phosphate concentrations is useful. Deficiencies of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and arachidonic acid (AA) are frequently observed in extremely preterm infants. A recent Swedish study suggests that combined DHA and AA supplementation may reduce the risk of severe ROP. When prescribing enteral and parenteral nutrition for preterm infants, it is important to consider micronutrients. Many preterm infants will need different micronutrient supplements.