Taurine Supplementation In Formula Milk: Effects On Growth And Development In Low Birth Weight Infants

Abstract

The neonatal period is a critical phase in an infant's life, particularly for preterm infants who are born before completing their full term of gestation. Preterm birth is associated with various challenges, including incomplete organ development and nutritional deficiencies. Ensuring optimal growth and development during this vulnerable period is paramount to improving long-term health outcomes. This original research study aimed to investigate the effects of taurine supplementation on the growth and development of preterm infants during the first three months of life. A total of 62 preterm infants were randomized into two groups: one receiving formula milk (Formula Group) and the other receiving formula milk with added taurine (Formula + Taurine Group). We measured several growth parameters, including birth weight, time to regain birth weight, daily weight gain from regained birth weight to 3 months (g/kg/day), birth length, weekly length gain from birth to 3 months (cm/wk), head circumference at birth, and weekly head circumference gain from birth to 3 months (cm/wk).The mean birth weight in the standard formula group was 1215 grams, with an average time of 11.0 days to regain birth weight. These infants exhibited a growth rate of 15.9 g/kg/day over the study period, with a mean birth length of 35.5 cm and a weekly length gain of 0.80 cm/week. Head circumference at birth averaged 32.8 cm, and the rate of head circumference gain from birth to 3 months was 0.70 cm/week. In contrast, the taurine-supplemented group demonstrated a mean birth weight of 1225 grams and took an average of 10.5 days to regain birth weight. These infants ex[1]hibited a higher growth rate of 16.9 g/kg/day, with a mean birth length of 35.4 cm and a weekly length gain of 0.89 cm/week. Head circumference at birth was consistent with the standard formula group at 32.8 cm, and the rate of head circumference gain from birth to 3 months was 0.79 cm/week. The taurine-supplemented group displayed slightly enhanced growth and developmental parameters compared to the standard formula group. These findings suggest a potential benefit of taurine supplementation in promoting growth and development in preterm infants during the neonatal period.Taurine supplementation in formula milk was associated with improved growth outcomes in preterm infants. The Formula + Taurine Group exhibited higher birth weights, faster time to regain birth weight, increased daily weight gain, accelerated length growth, and enhanced head circumference compared to the Formula Group. These findings underscore the potential benefits of taurine as a crucial nutrient for supporting the growth and development of preterm infants.