Postdischarge nutritional therapy.

Nutrient-enriched diets for preterm infants after hospital discharge (preterm formula or postdischarge formula (PDF)) results in improved growth and these differences appear to persist beyond the period of nutrient intervention. The PDF diet effect is greatest in males, possibly reflecting their higher growth rates. The critical growth epoch appears to be the first 2 months post-term, suggesting a finite period and therefore opportunity for enhanced growth. Whether the observed growth effects persist further or have consequences for other aspects of health or development requires further investigation.