Abstract
One serious problem related to prematurity is necrotizing enterocolitis. The development of necrotizing enterocolitis is thought to be related to many factors, although exact etiology is unknown. The risk increases with both decreased gestational age and lower birth weight. In the majority of cases, infants have been fed enterally. Factors related to enteral feeding are important because they can easily be manipulated whereas gestational age and birth weight cannot. Three manipulations related to enteral nutrition are discussed: trophic feedings; feeding advancement guidelines; and the use of human milk.