Comparison of Protein, Fat, Sodium and Calcium in the Milk of Mothers of Preterm and Full term Infants.

With the renewed interest in breast-feeding and the discussion of nutritional advantages of breast milk, there is more controversy regarding human milk as a nutritional source for preterm infants. In order to assess the nutritional adequacy of this milk, knowledge of its nutrient composition is required. In this study, Protein, Cholesterol, Sodium and Calcium content of milk produced by mothers of premature and full-term infants were determined. Study was carried out in four groups:1. 20 mothers of premature infants at 2-5th postpartum days.2. 20 mothers of premature infants at 14-17th postpartum days.3. 20 mothers of full-term infants at 2-5th postpartum days4. 20 mothers of full-term infants at 14-17th postpartum daysMilk produced by mothers delivering preterm infants contained significantly higher concentration of Sodium especially in the first few days after delivery. Protein, Cholesterol and Calcium concentration were relatively similar in compared groups.Sodium concentration decreased with progressing the days of lactation in both groups. No significant change in Protein and Calcium concentration was seen with progression of lactation. Cholesterol concentration increased with progressing days of lactation especially in the milk of premature infants’ mothers.