| In this double-blind placebo-controlled randomised prospective cohort study, the supplementation of preterm formula with prebiotics or lactenine is studied. The supplementation of prebiotics or lactenine may improve the gut flora of preterm infants by promoting growth of apathogenic bacteria. These supplements may produce a gut flora resembling the gut flora of human milk-fed preterm infants and thereby improve their resistance against infections. Furthermore lactoferrin reduces the availability and absorption of free iron and may thus reduce oxidative stress both locally in the gut and systemically. |
