Supplementation of vitamins and minerals in premature newborn: An integrative literature review

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Premature newborns (PTNB) generally have micronutrient deficiencies. This fact is justified due to low stocks, insufficient diet and increased metabolic needs. Therefore, it is important to supplement with vitamins and minerals in the perinatal period and in the outpatient follow-up of these babies. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the supplementation of vitamins and minerals in PTNB, highlighting its risks and benefits. Consider the indication and maintenance of supplements on an outpatient basis during follow-up. METHODS: Integrative review in PubMed, LILACS and SciELO databases. For the research, 473 articles were identified in English and Portuguese, published between 2012 and 2020. Of these, 16 articles were selected for the study. RESULTS: The benefit of vitamin A is greatly reduced and further analysis is needed. About vitamin D, most studies have shown that 400IU achieve adequate bone mineralization. Research has shown no significant effect on the use of calcium and phosphorus in preventing osteopenia. Regarding zinc supplementation, the only study found showed an improvement in growth in extremely low birth weight babies with chronic lung disease. However, ESPGHAN and SBP recommend its routine use for preterm in general. Iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency in childhood and is associated with impaired neurodevelopment, so its supplementation is highly recommended. CONCLUSION: PTNB are a risk group for vitamin and mineral deficiency. There are few studies on routine supplementation, so the current recommendations, the SBP and ESPGHAN consensus, should be considered.