effect of early initiation of colostrum feeding on proliferation of intestinal bacteria in neonates

Extract: A total of 180 normal neonates (average weight above 2.50 kg) having no feeding difficulties were divided into 2 groups and randomly assigned to either colostrum or to glucose water feeding regimens during a 3-day stay in a maternity ward. The effects of the feeding regimens on intestinal colonization were studied by examining the stools of the neonates. All bacteria recovered were identified quantitatively and biochemically. Of the 180 mothers, 105 complied with the instructions on feeding regimens. The majority of the neonates receiving colostrum had significantly lower bacterial counts than those on glucose water. Results of this preliminary study indicated that early initiation of colostrum feeding to neonates will suppress bacterial proliferation in neonates when potable water is not readily available. (author)