Nutrition and Weight Gain Before the Diagnosis of Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia

Preterm infants are at high risk for the development of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). Little evidence exists related to nutritional intake and growth before the diagnosis of BPD. The purpose of this study was to compare nutritional intake and weight gain of preterm infants with BPD with recommendations for nutrition and growth during the first 28 days of life. The sample included 30 preterm infants with BPD. The infants received significantly less energy and protein than what is recommended. By 28 days of life, the infants were receiving 98.63 kcal kg−1 d−1. The infants had accumulated a significant energy and protein deficit by 28 days of life. The rate of weight gain was 11.55 g kg−1 d−1. Preterm infants with BPD are undernourished during the first 28 days of life and, thus, gain weight at a slower rate. Undernutrition might be contributing to the development of BPD by altering growth of the immature lungs.