How much 20 cal MBM do preemies need to meet their caloric needs?

The caloric needs of preterm infants can vary significantly depending on their gestational age, birth weight, and overall health status. Typically, preterm infants require higher caloric intake to support their rapid growth and development. For those receiving 20 cal per ounce maternal breast milk (MBM), the recommended caloric intake often falls around 150-180 mL/kg per day to meet their metabolic demands.

Selecting 180 mL/kg aligns with the general recommendation for premature infants to ensure adequate energy supply without overwhelming their immature digestive systems. This volume allows for the provision of approximately 120-130 calories per kilogram per day, meeting the growth requirements and energy needs necessary for these vulnerable populations.

Other options, such as 250 mL/kg or higher volumes, may exceed the caloric needs and could lead to overfeeding, which might result in complications like metabolic disturbances or gastrointestinal discomfort, while lower volumes may not suffice to support adequate growth. Therefore, the choice of 180 mL/kg reflects an optimal balance to meet the caloric requirements of preterm infants receiving 20 cal MBM.