Lactase treated feeds to promote growth and feeding tolerance in preterm infants.

Successful transition from parenteral nutrition to full enteral feedings during the immediate neonatal period is associated with improved growth in preterm infants. Lactase is the last of the major intestinal disaccharidases to develop in preterm infants. Because of inadequate lactase activity, preterm infants are unable to digest lactose. Lactase preparations could potentially be used to hydrolyze lactose in formulas and breast milk to minimize lactose malabsorption in preterm infants.