The Textbook of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition (2004)
Editor: Dr. Stefano Guandalini, MD, Professor of Pediatrics, University of Chicago
Chapter Author: Dr. Timothy Sentongo, MD, MBBS, University of Chicago
Researchers: Mario De Curtis, MD, University of Palermo;
Jacques Rigo, MD, University of Liege
- Chapter VII: Gastrointestinal Disorders and Nutrition in the Neonatal Age
- Parenteral Nutrition in Preterm Infants, page 631
“Although trace elements make up a small fraction of the total mineral content of the human body, they play an important role in numerous metabolic pathways. The infant born prematurely is at increased risk for developing trace mineral deficiencies. Premature birth is associated with low stores at birth, because accretion of trace minerals takes place during the last trimester of pregnancy.”
(emphasis added)