Growth of Preterm Infants Fed a Infant Milk Formula Containing High Versus Low Amounts of Beta-palmitate
Trial Parameters
Brief Summary
The aim of this study is to assess weight gain of preterm infants (gestational age lower than 32 weeks) fed infant milk formula with about 60% beta-palmitate (EX\_IMF) vs infant milk formula with similar macronutrient, mineral and fatty acid composition but lower amounts of beta-palmitate (ST\_IMF). Own mother milk (OMM) fed infants will serve as reference group.
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * gestational age between 24 and 32 weeks of gestation at enrollment, * birth weight greater than 750 grams, * singleton or twin birth (no triplet or higher), * fraction of inspired oxygen lower than 0.60 at enrollment, * feasible enteral feeding, * cardiovascular stable condition, * informed consent form signed by at least one parent or legal guardian. Exclusion Criteria: * congenital malformations, genetic, metabolic and endocrine disorders, * suspicious infection at enrollment, * intrauterine growth restriction (\<10th centile) at enrollment, * maternal diabetes requiring insulin therapy, * neonatal asphyxia.