Imagine arriving in the world and immediately having to fight for survival! 💪
That’s the reality for preterm babies. From their first minute, they need to “Fight Out and Survive” and that too with underdeveloped organs (heart, lungs, brain, eyes) and immunity. The fight doesn’t end in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) but continues as they grow, facing physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges.
🔍 For instance, preterm birth doubles the risk of later hypertension and increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by up to 60%. In addition, preterm infants display higher body fat percentage and greater intra-abdominal fat—differences that persist into adulthood.
📚 Moreover, preterm infants are at higher risk of developmental and academic difficulties up to 7 years of age compared to term infants. They face greater risks of cerebral palsy, speech disorders, neurodevelopmental handicaps, behavioral abnormalities, and competence issues (behavioral, scholastic, social, and global).
Nutrition is key for the optimal growth of these special babies. Nutrition provided during NICU hospitalization and after discharge significantly determines infant growth.
🍼 When infants are fed human milk (HM), fortifiers like NiQu HMoF should be added to boost nutritional content.
If formula-fed, a special Post Discharge Formula such as NiQu Advance PDF containing more protein, minerals, trace elements, and LCPUFAs than standard term formula should be provided until 40 weeks’ postconceptional age and possibly up to 52 weeks’ postconceptional age.
🔍 Hence, the nutritional needs of these special babies are unique and can only be met by specialized products.
✨ Let’s ensure these precious fighters get the best start in life! ✨
