ABSTRACT
PURPOSE: To compare the effect of breast milk containing fortifier with preterm formula on bone mineral metabolism in premature infants, we evaluated the state of bone mineralization, biochemical alteration and the frequency of rickets during the first five months of life. METHODS: Fourteen fortified breast milk-fed infants and eleven preterm formula-fed infants who were born at Il-Sin Christian Hospital from August, 1996 through July, 1997, were studied. The breast milk-fed group received human milk fortifier. The intake of Ca, P, Mg, protein, and fat was calculated at one month of age. Birth weight and weight at one, two and five months of age were measured. Serum Ca, P, alkaline phosphatase and 25-hydroxyvitamine D were measured at one month of age, and the wrist received X-ray examinations monthly. Total body bone mineral content was measured by Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (Lunar WI) at two and five months of age. RESULTS: The two groups were similar in birth weight, gestational age, and weight at one, two and five months of age. Enteral Ca, P, protein, Mg, and fat intake, and urinary excretion of Ca, P were similar among the two groups. Serum Ca, P, ALP and 25-hydroxyvitamin D were not different. Occurrence of rickets and bone mineral content were similar among the two groups. CONCLUSION: Fortified breast milk-fed infants and preterm formula-fed infants showed no difference in total body bone mineral content and occurrence of rickets. Ultimately, we could enhance the advantage of breast milk fed to premature infants by adding fortifier.