Trophic feedings (also called “minimal” or “priming” enteral feedings), are
beneficial for preterm low birth weight infants. Colostrum and human milk
have unique properties that have not been duplicated. These include
nutrients, enzymes, growth factors, hormones, immunologic, anti-infective
and anti-inflammatory properties. Research studies have shown a decrease in
NEC and late onset sepsis Advantages of trophic feedings reported in the
scientific literature include