Growth and Feeding Tolerance in Premature Infants

Effect of Early Human Milk Fortification Versus Delayed Fortification on Growth and Feeding Tolerance in Premature Infants: a Randomized Controlled Trial.

The main purpose of the study is to evaluate the effect of early human milk fortification versus delayed fortification on growth and feeding tolerance in premature infants.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Preterm infants born at 28-31+6 weeks' gestation and/or birth weight1000-1500g.
• Exclusively receiving mother's own milk or donor human milk.
• No major congenital anomalies, severe sepsis, or NEC at enrollment.
• Parental/guardian consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Extremely pre-term infants
• Infants with congenital gastrointestinal malformations or metabolic disorders.
• Infants with confirmed necrotizing enterocolitis(NEC)Stage II/III or intestinal perforation before enrollment (as these cases indicate significant gastrointestinal morbidity that may interfere with feeding tolerance and growth assessment).
• Infants whose parents decline participation.