2.6. Study Visits, Growth Parameters, Dietary and Symptom Records
stomach pain, flatulence, vomiting, watery, Weight gain
Infants visited the study sites at baseline (five to eight weeks), and at three, four, five and six months of age. At baseline, perinatal and background data on infants and parents were collected. Growth parameters were measured at each visit. Weight was recorded with an accuracy of 5 g (Malmö/Lund: UWE AIN 3 or TANITA BD-815MA, Umeå: SECA 757), and recumbent length (all sites: SECA 416) and head circumference (all sites: non-stretchable measuring tape, SECA 212) measured with the accuracy of 1 mm. Growth velocity (gains in weight, length, and head circumference) during the intervention period was calculated by dividing the increase in anthropometric measurements by the exact number of days between visits at baseline, four and six months of age for each infant. Weight gain is presented as g/d, and gain in length and head circumference as cm/month. Age-adjusted z-scores were calculated for growth parameters using the WHO growth standard [Parents were asked to complete a detailed three-day dietary diary before each monthly visit. Infant formula intake was reported in ml/meal and complementary food intake in volume (ml or dl), weight (g) or as number of tea- or tablespoons (5 or 15 mL). Infants were fed on demand. Macronutrient and energy intake from complementary food was calculated by a dietician using the Dietist Net ProStool frequency and consistency (hard, soft, firm, or watery) were registered daily as well as the occurrence of vomiting (not regurgitation), stomach pain, flatulence, any illness, doctor´s visit or medication. Time to fall asleep (<5 min, 5 to <15 min, 15 to <30 min, 30 to <60 min and >60 min), and daily crying time (<30 min, 30 to <60 min, 60 to <120 min, 120 to <180 min and ≥180 min) were recorded as predefined time intervals and registered two days every week. The relation of crying in connection with feeding was also registered.