What should be the caloric content of human milk when provided to preterm infants?

The caloric content of human milk provided to preterm infants is essential for their growth and development, as these infants have higher caloric needs due to their rapid growth and lower fat reserves. Standard human milk provides about 20 kilocalories per ounce, which is typically adequate for term infants but often insufficient for preterm infants who may require additional calories.

The recommended caloric range of 24-26 kilocalories per ounce is considered optimal for preterm infants. This higher caloric density helps to support their increased energy demands and facilitate appropriate weight gain and development. Fortifying human milk with additional nutrients can help achieve this caloric density while providing essential vitamins and minerals that are crucial for a preterm infant’s health.

In clinical practice, specialized formulas or fortifiers may be used alongside or in place of human milk to meet these caloric requirements. This level of attention to dietary needs is critical, considering that preterm infants are at greater risk for growth delays and complications stemming from nutrient deficiencies. Therefore, providing human milk at a caloric density of 24-26 kilocalories per ounce aligns with best practices for the nutritional management of preterm infants.