How to fortify breast milk to 22 kcal with NeoSure?

Fortifying Breast Milk to 22 kcal with NeoSure: A Comprehensive Guide
Fortifying breast milk is a common practice for parents of premature or low-birth-weight infants who require additional calories and nutrients to support their growth and development. One effective method involves using NeoSure, a specialized formula designed to enhance the caloric content of breast milk. Here’s how to achieve a fortification level of 22 kcal per ounce using NeoSure.
Understanding NeoSure
NeoSure is a nutrient-enriched formula specifically formulated for infants who were born prematurely. It provides essential vitamins, minerals, and calories that are crucial for the growth of these vulnerable babies. The formula is designed to be mixed with breast milk to increase its caloric density, making it an ideal choice for fortification.
The Fortification Process
To fortify breast milk to 22 kcal, the general guideline is to mix 1 teaspoon (approximately 5 ml) of NeoSure with 5 ounces (approximately 150 ml) of breast milk. This combination effectively raises the caloric content of the breast milk from its standard 20 kcal per ounce to the desired 22 kcal.
For those looking for a more precise measurement, some parents have reported using 2 ml (or half a teaspoon) of NeoSure mixed with 85 ml of breast milk to achieve the same caloric density. This flexibility allows caregivers to adjust the fortification based on their specific needs and the recommendations of their healthcare provider.
Important Considerations
1. Consultation with Healthcare Providers: Before starting any fortification regimen, it is crucial to consult with a pediatrician or a dietitian. They can provide tailored advice based on the infant’s health status and nutritional needs.
2. Monitoring for Reactions: While many infants tolerate NeoSure well, some may experience gastrointestinal discomfort or allergic reactions. Parents should monitor their babies closely for any adverse effects, such as excessive gas or changes in stool patterns.
3. Storage and Preparation: When preparing fortified breast milk, ensure that both the breast milk and NeoSure are handled according to safe food practices. Breast milk should be stored properly, and NeoSure should be mixed just before feeding to maintain its nutritional integrity.
4. Feeding Techniques: If using a bottle, ensure that the nipple size is appropriate for the thicker consistency of fortified milk, as this can affect feeding efficiency and comfort for the baby.
Conclusion
Fortifying breast milk with NeoSure to achieve 22 kcal per ounce is a straightforward process that can significantly benefit premature or low-birth-weight infants. By following the recommended mixing ratios and consulting healthcare professionals, parents can ensure their babies receive the necessary nutrients for healthy growth and development. As always, close monitoring and adjustments based on the infant’s response are key to successful fortification.

How many calories are in a scoop of NeoSure?

NeoSure® usually contains 22 calories per ounce, but some babies may need a different calorie level to gain the right amount of weight.

How do you make 22 calorie Similac formula?

To prepare Similac Alimentum 22 calories/ounce from powder: Place 31⁄2 fluid ounces of water in a container. Add 2 unpacked level scoops (17.4 grams) of Similac Alimentum powder to container. Shake or stir well.

How long do you use NeoSure?

Similac NeoSure* premature post-discharge baby formula promotes excellent catch-up growth1 during a premature baby’s first 12 months of life.

When to stop fortifying breast milk?

Human milk fortifier can be used until your baby reaches 3-6 months *corrected age (actual age minus the number of weeks premature). Your health visitor will monitor how your baby is growing by measuring weight, length and head circumference.

How to use formula to fortify breast milk?

Use an unpacked, level teaspoon or scoop when measuring formula. Any powder formula may be mixed with breast milk. powder should be mixed with 4½ ounces of water.

How to mix NeoSure 22 kcal?

Pour 6 fl oz of water into clean bottle. Add 3 unpacked level scoops of NeoSure, using only the scoop in can, and return dry scoop to can. Wash your hands, surfaces, and utensils. Ask your baby’s doctor if you need to boil (sterilize) utensils, bottles, nipples, rings, and water for mixing before use.

How big is the NeoSure scoop?

Add one level enclosed scoop (approximately 5.1 g) of Similac® Neosure® powder to each 30 ml of water in the bottle or bowl.

How to make 22 calorie formula with breast milk?

Usually you start at 22kcal/oz, higher can upset their stomaches. Then increase as tolerated and needed for weight gain. Fortifying to 22 kcal should be 1/2 teaspoon powder formula added to 90 ml of breast milk. This chart is from Children’s Hospital Minestota.

Can NeoSure be mixed with breast milk?

NeoSure® or Enfacare® formula powder can be added to your breast milk to increase the amount of calories and nutrients your baby receives.

How to make breast milk 22 calories with NeoSure?

“To fortify to 22 calories per ounce, mix 1 teaspoon Neosure per every 5oz (150ml) breastmilk – or 1/2 teaspoon per 2.5oz (75ml). Refrigerate immediately after mixing and use fortified milk within 24 hours of mixing.”