Protein-Packed breast milk could help tiny preemies grow stronger
NCT ID NCT04325308
First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 30, 2026 · Updated 2 times
Summary
This study tests whether adding extra protein to breast milk during the first two weeks of life helps extremely preterm infants (born at 28 weeks or earlier) gain more lean body mass and develop a healthier gut microbiome. About 150 babies will be randomly assigned to receive either protein-enriched human milk or standard human milk. The goal is to see if the extra protein improves growth and gut bacteria diversity by the time they reach their original due date.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
human-based protein supplement added to human milk
What this could lead to
If it works, this could improve growth and gut health in extremely preterm infants, reducing long-term health problems.
What could go wrong
This is an early-stage trial with only 150 infants, so results may not apply to all preterm babies. Adding protein may also cause digestive issues or other side effects.
Disclaimer
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Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, Alabama, 35233, United States