Most people agree breastfeeding is best for babies.
Fewer people know that numerous studies have shown breastmilk is especially beneficial to preterm infants. Mothers who give birth prematurely have milk that differs from a mother who delivers at term. Compared to term milk, preterm milk is theoretically more suited to the unique needs of the preterm infant. It has significantly higher concentrations of proteins, fat, immunologic factors, sodium, chloride and iron. Studies have identified many benefits to preterm infants when fed breastmilk.