What kind of special formula milk powder should premature babies eat?
The natural gestational age of premature infants is less than 37 weeks, the wet weight is 1000~2500g, and the lungs are not fully developed. In order to help them recover quickly and improve their survival rate, some special formula milk powder is often used in the diet of premature infants. So, what kind of special formula should premature babies eat?
1. Low calcium/high phosphorus milk powder
Calcium is a key nutrient for bone development, and phosphorus plays a similar role. However, because the bones of premature infants are not fully developed, excessive calcium and phosphorus content will increase the burden on their kidneys and even lead to an imbalance of calcium and phosphorus in the body. Therefore, low-calcium/high-phosphorus milk powder has become the first choice for premature infants. It contains less calcium and more phosphorus, which is beneficial to maintaining normal bone development. At the same time, adding vitamin D, potassium, magnesium and other elements can better promote the absorption and utilization of calcium and phosphorus.
2. Relatively high protein milk powder
Relatively high-protein milk powder refers to a higher proportion of protein in total energy, which can reach about 10~15%. This is because premature babies have a faster metabolism and require more protein to meet their growth and development needs. Relatively high-protein milk powder can provide enough protein to help maintain the normal operation of the body. At the same time, protein can also promote the development of the immune system and improve disease resistance.
3. Hypotonic milk powder
The kidneys of premature babies are relatively fragile and may lead to impaired kidney function if overloaded. Therefore, hypotonic milk powder becomes a more kidney-friendly choice. The osmotic pressure of hypotonic milk powder is relatively low, which can reduce the burden on the kidneys and will not cause uncomfortable symptoms such as diarrhea. In addition, hypotonic milk powder contains more glucose, which helps provide more energy.
4. Flavored milk powder
Premature babies are prone to a series of problems after birth, such as immature lungs and unhealthy intestines, which can affect feeding, digestion and absorption. For this reason, doctors will choose different flavored milk powders based on the actual conditions of premature infants. For example, adding substances such as human milk oligosaccharides to milk powder can stimulate intestinal peristalsis and promote digestion and absorption; adding immune globulin can improve immunity and resist infection.
Summary
Premature babies require special formula to ensure their health and normal development. Low-calcium/high-phosphorus milk powder, relatively high-protein milk powder, hypotonic milk powder, flavored milk powder, etc. are all options for premature infants. However, the choice of milk powder should be based on the doctor\’s advice and used strictly in accordance with the doctor\’s instructions to avoid adverse reactions to the baby.
