Nutrition in infants with BPD after hospital discharged

Abstract The paper describes current proposals for feeding infants with BPD discharged from neonatal units. Weight and growth as well as tissue composition of infants with BPD are different from infants with similar birth weight. Currently there are no findings as to the advantages of either method of feeding of LBW and ELBW infants after discharge. No research has been done showing the advantage of preterm formula over breast milk. Postdischarge formulas with the content of nutrients more beneficial than breast milk, containing less protein and energy than preterm formulas and more vitamin, minerals and microelements than breast milk, are currently not available in Poland. Considering respiratory and digestion disorders as well as problems with coordination of sucking and swallowing in infants with BPD, the basic rules for BPD infants' feeding should include: 1. increased demand for energy and nutrients; 2. preventing osteopaenia; 3. the necessity for fluid restriction; 4. administration of nutrients necessary for proper development and healing of lungs, such as vit. A and E, LC PUFA, vit C, ferrum, selenium, glutamine, cysteine, metionine, microelements; 5. paying close attention to problems of sucking and swallowing as well as the presence of gastroesophaegal reflux.