Importance of human breast milk in premature infant

Abstract

Human breast milk (HBM) is considered the optimum
feeding for infant nutrition. The specific composition
and unique properties make HBM appropriate not only
for the term but also for preterm infants. HBM feeding
confers protection to preterm infants against the
most serious morbidities of prematurity and decreases
mortality in a dose-dependent manner. We performed
a literature review, aiming to provide an update on the
available evidence regarding the importance and the advantages
of HBM on preterm infants’ health. Our findings
confirmed the several health benefits in preterm
infants, including the improvement of neurodevelopmental
outcomes and the protection against necrotizing
enterocolitis and infections. Many more investigations
will be necessary to understand the mechanisms underlying
the beneficial association of HBM with neurodevelopmental
outcomes and to confirm the beneficial effects
of HBM on bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Based
on the current evidence on the health benefit of HBM
feeding, promotion and support of lactation since the
immediate post-delivery should be considered a priority
in preterm infants’ care.