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| |    Formula-Feeding a Premature Infant by Mary Silva, M.S., R.D. reviewed by Robert Needlman, M.D., F.A.A.P. While in the hospital, formula-fed premature babies are usually given a formula designed especially for their nutritional needs. These formulas contain more of the nutrients that premature infants require--among them, iron, fat, protein, several vitamins, calcium, phosphorous and magnesium. Soy formulas are not used because they have natural substances that prohibit the absorption of phosphorous, which is essential to a preemie's bone development. Mealtime at home By the time your premature baby leaves the hospital, she usually has made the transition to a standard formula. In fact, your baby's ability to thrive and grow on a more standard formula is sometimes a criterion that must be met before she can be discharged from the hospital. If your baby needs extra calories, you may be advised to mix the formula with less water so that there is a concentrated amount of calories. A physician or nutritionist can determine if this is necessary. And while full-term babies often are transitioned off formula around 12 months, it's not unusual for formerly premature babies to stay on formula past one year. The feeding process Breast- or bottle-feeding is one of an infant's main tasks, especially if a baby is born prematurely. In fact, feeding can be particularly hard work for preemies and require a great expenditure of energy. Premature infants typically are capable of drinking only a small amount at a time, which means that they have to be fed often. In addition, they can be easily distracted or disturbed during this process, so be sure to feed your baby in a quiet, calm place away from other children, noise, and household traffic. Supervised care All premature infants need frequent follow-up medical visits to chart their growth and general health after being discharged from the hospital. Take time to discuss with your pediatrician the growth of your baby as it relates to her feeding and nutrition. Finally, if one is available, you may find it helpful to attend a program that addresses the developmental issues specific to premature infants.
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