Effect of Breast Milk Circadian Properties on Infant's Growth Parameters and Absorption of Nutrients

The most ideal method for providing breast milk is breastfeeding. However, it may be necessary to express breast milk for reasons such as the newborn being in an intensive care unit, the mother being hospitalized for any reason, or the mother starting to work. The content of breast milk varies according to gestational age and stages of lactation. However, it varies from day to day depending on the infant's needs. In recent literature, it is emphasized that the content of breast milk (carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, trace elements, etc.) varies according to circadian variation. In the literature review, no national or international study was found indicating whether the circadian properties of breast milk have an effect on the infant's growth parameters. This study was designed as a randomized controlled experimental study to determine the effect of the circadian properties of breast milk on the growth parameters of the infant and the absorption levels of nutrients by the baby in preterm newborns. no effect on the infant's growth parameters and nutrient absorption levels by the infant. Hypothesis 1 (H1): Feeding preterm newborns with breast milk according to the circadian rhythm has an effect on the weight of the infants. Hypothesis 2 (H2): Feeding preterm newborns with breast milk according to the circadian rhythm has an effect on the height of the infants. Hypothesis 3 (H3): Feeding preterm newborns with breast milk according to the circadian rhythm has an effect on the head circumference of the infants. Hypothesis 4 (H4): Feeding preterm newborns with breast milk according to the circadian rhythm has an effect on the absorption levels of vitamins and trace elements measured in the infants' breast milk.