What is the daily weight gain for premature infants weighing less than 2 kg?

The daily weight gain for premature infants weighing less than 2 kg is typically in the range of 15-20 grams per day. This figure reflects the specific growth needs of very low birth weight infants who require careful monitoring and support in their early days and weeks. Adequate weight gain is crucial for supporting their development and promoting overall health.

Premature infants face unique challenges, including underdeveloped systems that make it difficult for them to thrive, so achieving a weight gain that falls within this range is seen as a critical objective in their care. It is important to provide them with appropriate nutrition to support their growth, as their bodies are still working to adapt to life outside the womb. Ensuring they gain at least 15 grams daily is a way to monitor and support their growth trajectory, which is essential given their increased vulnerability during this early period.

In contrast, other proposed ranges, such as 20-30 grams or higher, tend to be aimed at more stable and less vulnerable infants, indicating that infants below this weight classification have different growth targets due to their increased risk of complications and unique metabolic needs.