[60] Neonatal Feeding Flashcards
When is human milk recommended as the exclusive feed?
For all term infants for the first 6 months of life
Is human milk recommended for preterm infants?
Yes, but may require fortification
What is increasingly available for preterm infants in order to supplement maternal milk?
Donor breast milk
When should counselling regarding breast feeding commence?
Early in pregnancy
Who should assist mothers in breast feeding?
Nursing or lactation specialists
Should the choice to breast feed or formula feed be criticised?
No obviously not
How does the protein content of breast milk compare to unmodified cows milk?
It has a low protein content, but is more easily digestible
What amino acid is prominent in breast milk?
Glutamine
What is the importance of the glutamine in breast milk?
It stimulates enterotropic hormones, enhancing feeding tolerance
What kind of fat is present in breast milk?
Unsaturated
What kind of important fatty acid does breast milk contain?
Long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs)
What is the importance of LCPUFAs?
Needed for nervous system development
Describe the carbohydrate content of breast milk?
Contains high lactose
How does the mineral content of breast milk compare to unmodified cows milk?
- Low renal sodium load
- Reduced phosphate:calcium ratio
Is the vitamin content of breast milk sufficient?
No, supplementation is required to meet daily requirements
What is meant by formula milk being ‘humanised’?
It is manipulated to resemble human milk
What are the disadvantages of formula milk compared to breast milk?
- Differences in amino acids and fatty composition
- Does not contain anti-infective properties of human milk
What major health concern arises from formula milk feeding in developing countries?
Infection from re-constituting milk powder with contaminated water
Are unmodified animal milks, e.g. cows, goats, sheep, suitable for infants?
No
What kind of formula is sometimes used to prevent allergic disorders such as eczema and asthma?
Soy (evidence for this is lacking)
What % of infants with cow’s milk protein intolerance become sensitive to soy?
10-30%
Is soy formula recommended for premature infants?
No
When should an infant first be placed on the breast?
Immediately or soon after birth
What environmental factors can encourage breastfeeding?
Quiet, supportive environment with comfortable positioning
What is better, fixed schedule feeding or demand feeding?
Demand feeding