Calcium and phosphorus supplementation of human milk for preterm infants

Adding extra calcium and phosphorus to human milk for increasing growth in preterm infants. Preterm infants are born with low skeletal stores of calcium and phosphorus as some two-thirds of mineral content is taken up in the third trimester of pregnancy. This puts them at risk for fractures and lower-than-expected growth rates as these minerals are important for strong bones. This has led to widespread mineral supplementation of human milk and preterm formulae. An infant can drink large volumes to obtain sufficient protein and sodium as well. In excess, supplemental calcium and phosphorus may have adverse effects including a build up of calcium (including in the kidneys) and feeding intolerance. The review authors searched the medical literature for controlled studies measuring growth and bone metabolism of preterm infants within a hospital setting with supplements of calcium and phosphorus in human milk. No studies fortified human milk with just calcium and phosphorus, they added multiple nutrients including carbohydrate, protein, and minerals.