Milk source vs fortifier type in the NICU: What matters most for the gut microbiome?

The gut microbiome and gut inflammation are central to health outcomes in very low birthweight preterm infants. In the NICU, both milk source and fortifier type are important feeding decisions, but their relative influence on these parameters is not well studied.

This presentation by Meghan Assad will review new evidence showing that milk source (mother’s own vs donor milk) is more strongly associated with microbiome composition, gut inflammation, and growth than fortifier type (human- vs bovine-derived). Participants will come away with a clearer understanding of how these findings can inform NICU feeding practices and support evidence-based counseling for families.