Table 2.

Fetal vs. very preterm neonatal nutrition [data taken from 3]

Normal fetal nutrition has several unique features:
-	Amino acids are pumped into the fetus at rates and concentrations that are higher than the fetus can use
-	The excess amino acid load is oxidized for energy
-	Glucose is taken up and used to meet energy needs
In contrast, with more ‘customary’ nutrition of the preterm infants:
-	Glucose is pumped into the infant at rates and concentrations that are higher than the infant can use
-	The excess glucose load produces hyperglycemia
-	Amino acids are provided at rates that are less than needed for normal growth rates
Therefore, to improve early nutrition of the preterm infant, and to more closely follow the minimal requirements for nutrition established by the growth of the normal fetus at the same gestational age, one should:
-	Pump amino acids into the infant at rates and concentrations just higher than the infant can use: e.g., 3–4 g/kg/day in infants <30 weeks’ gestation
-	The excess amino acid load will be oxidized, producing useful energy
-	Provide just enough glucose to meet glucose needs (6–10 mg/kg/min = 27–42 kcal/kg/day)
-	Provide just enough lipid to meet additional energy (and EFA) needs (2–3 g/kg/day = 18–36 kcal/kg/day)