Human Milk Fortifiers and Acid-Base Status

Impact of Human Milk Fortifiers on Acid-Base Status in Preterm Infants

Double-blind randomized controlled trial to investigate the impact of two human milk fortifiers on acid-base status and longitudinal growth and weight gain in preterm infants.

Two different compositions are tested, main difference is in electrolyte composiiton.

Two groups each consisting of 15 infants with a birth weight below 2000g are studied.randomization is startified by three birth weigth classes (<1000g, 1000-1500g,1500 - 2000g) human milk fortifier is introduced in two steps after oral feeding is achieved. two acid-base status and electrolyte concentrations are measured. when metabolic acidosis, defined as BE < -6 mmol/l, occurs fortifier feeding is stopped, and after a wash-out period of three days the alternative product is used.again, occurence of metabolic acidosis, need for oral bicarbonate and effect on longitudinal growth an weight gain are registered.

Inclusion Criteria:

growing premature infants with a birth weight < 2000g

Exclusion Criteria:

congenital malformation chromosomal disorders sepsis metabolic disorders need for mechanical ventilation