TITLE:
The OPTI-GROWTH Study: Evaluating the Efficacy and Safety of Optilait Infant Formula in NICU Neonates
AUTHORS:
Célia Sebastião Mabico
KEYWORDS:
Infant Formula, Anthropometry, Neonatal Growth, Weight Gain, Head Circumference
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Pediatrics,
Vol.16 No.4,
June
30,
2026
ABSTRACT: Background: This study evaluates the nutritional efficacy of Optilait, an infant formula designed for neonates, those admitted in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) in Luanda, Angola. Recognizing that breast milk is the gold standard for infant nutrition, this research explores Optilait as a vital alternative when breastfeeding is insufficient or contraindicated. Methodology: A total of 29 infants, aged between birth and six months, were enrolled in a non-interventional, single-centre, prospective study over 28 days. The primary parameters measured were included gain in weight, height, and head circumference, recorded on a daily basis. Results: The study demonstrated statistically significant improvements in weight, with an overall gain of 39.06% from Day 1 to Day 28 (p Conclusion: The findings suggest that Optilait provides a nutritionally effective alternative for infants requiring formula supplementation, addressing growth needs in a clinically vulnerable population.