Work package 1.6

Hypothesis: Early enteral feeding, with or without probiotics, supports preterm infant health.

Minimal enteral feeding (MEN) and probiotics

MEN is feeding small volumens of milk to mature the gut before full enteral feeding is tolerated for preterm infnats. The benefits/risks of MEN feeding and probiotics, are not clear (23,30). Feeding practices vary widely, even within countries. Following an observational study of feeding practices and clinical outcome in China and Europe, we test the efficacy of MEN feeding and/or probiotics.

Methods

Firstly, a web based data base is formed for entering clinical outcome and feeding procedures at hospitals in Europe and China. Based on the results, a controlled trial on new MEN diets and/or probiotics is initiated in low birth weight, preterm infants (<2.000 g). Prior to these infant trials, studies in preterm pigs are performed to provide proof of concept.

Results

The data base gives novel information about preterm infant feeding procedures in China and Europe, including NEC and infections. The data forms the basis for selecting the primary and secondary endpoints of the subsequent intervention trials.