More than 1 in 10 of the world’s babies are born prematurely and the rates are increasing, both in developed and developing countries. Developmental immaturity in preterm infants impacts several organs and systems, which can lead to long-term consequences for health, growth and development. Preterm infants have distinct physiological characteristics compared to term infants, which result in high and unique nutritional needs. Adequate nutrition at this stage is crucial to meet the preterm infant needs for proper growth and development.

Protein play a crucial role in the growth and development of children. The size of protein influences on its allergic potential and digestibility. This presentation covers the characteristics of different protein hydrolysates, as well as the potential benefits of partial whey hydrolysates on risk reduction of allergic diseases and on the improvement of some functional gastrointestinal disorders

High protein intake in early stage of life is associated with accelerated weight gain during infancy and early childhood, which is a strong predictor of childhood and adult obesity. After birth, promotion of breastfeeding beyond 6 months is important to prevent excessive weight gain during infancy. This presentation focus on the impact of high protein intake in infancy on long term health.

Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs) are the third most abundant component of human milk. Originally HMOs were discovered because of their prebiotic effect. Science evolved and currently it is already known that their effects go beyond the bifidogenic one, benefiting infants in many different ways. In this presentation you will find information about basic science and potential benefits of HMOs.

Some types of Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs) are now commercially available and are being added to infant formula. This presentation compiles the main results of the 3 clinical studies done with infant formulas with addition of one HMO (2’-fucosyllactose – 2’FL) or 2 HMOs (2’FL and lacto-N-neotetraose – LNnT).

There is ongoing confusion between lactose intolerance (LI) and cow’s milk allergy (CMA) which may lead to misdiagnosis and inappropriate dietary management. The treatment of LI involves the reduction, but not complete elimination, of lactose-containing foods.