For infants 34 weeks or greater, what is the recommended volume of unfortified human milk intake?

For infants born at 34 weeks gestation or greater, the recommended volume of unfortified human milk intake falls within the range of 180-200 mL per kg per day. This intake level is recognized to support optimal growth and development during a critical period of rapid growth in preterm infants.

Evidence suggests that this volume is sufficient to meet their nutritional needs while also minimizing the risk of overfeeding, which can lead to complications such as necrotizing enterocolitis. Moreover, the recommended volume accounts for the infant's overall energy and protein requirements, which are particularly important during the early stages of life when the metabolic demands are significantly elevated.

In light of this, adhering to the 180-200 mL/kg/day intake ensures that infants receive adequate nutrients for healthy growth and helps to prevent potential growth issues associated with inadequate caloric intake.