Effect of Probiotics on Full Intestinal Feeding in Premature Infants: A Double Blind, Clinical Trial

Abstract

Background: Premature infants suffer from many problems due to the lack of evolution of the digestive system, and early onset of intestinal feeding prevents these complications. Probiotics have been used to prevent intestinal disorders in preterm infants due to their many benefits. Objectives: This study was conducted to measure the efficacy of probiotics on time to reach full intestinal feeds (120 cc/kg/day) in premature newborns. Methods: This study was double-blind randomized clinical trial. Preterm infants born at < 36 weeks and birth weight of 1000 – 2500 gr (n = 58) in 17th Shahrivar Hospital, Rasht, Iran, were randomly assigned into intervention group (oral administration of probiotics) and control group (with normal saline administration). Data were collected using a data form that includes demographic characteristics, time to full intestinal feeding, and the incidence of complications. Data were analyzed by SPSS version 21 using descriptive and analytical statistical tests. Results: The results of the study showed that the mean and standard deviation time to full intestinal feeding in the probiotic group was 5.7 ± 1.06 days, while in the placebo group was 6.72 ± 1.98 days, which was statistically significant (P = 0.002). There were no significant correlation between study variables and time to full intestinal feeding except mode of delivery (P = 0.029). Conclusions: Feeding with probiotics is recognized as an effective way to prevent adverse health outcomes in preterm infants. The present study showed that administration of probiotics reduced the time to full feeding. Therefore, it is an effective and inexpensive method to prevent intestinal disorders in newborns.