Two key strategies in the nutritional management of the extremely low birth weight infant.

Two relatively new strategies in the nutritional management of the extremely low birthweight infant include early administration of amino acids and the integration with minimal enteral nutrition within the first days of life. These strategies will promote early positive energy balance and nitrogen retention as well as stimulate the functional integrity of the gastrointestinal tract. Clinical outcomes that should be improved include decreasing post-natal weight loss and earlier return to birthweight.