The Effect of Protein Supplementation on Body Growth Indices and Immune System Development in Premature Neonates with Very Low Birth Weight

Abstract

Objective: Complications in very low birth weight (VLBW) infants include an increase in mortality, sepsis, failure to thrive, and immune system development disorder. However, breast milk is the preferred choice for premature infants. However, no useful nutrition support exists for well-being growth in preterm infants, especially in protein quantity. Thus, this study aims to add protein supplements to breast milk for increased growth criteria and the development of the immune system. Materials and Methods: This double-blind clinical trial included 30 VLBW infants whose weight was