OBJECTIVE: To review the recent medical literature on nutrition of preterm infants, focusing on practical aspects that are relevant to pediatricians and neonatologists. SOURCES: An extensive review of the related literature using Medline, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and Best Evidence was performed. SUMMARY OF THE FINDINGS: There is compelling evidence that early nutritional practices may affect short-term growth and developmental outcome in preterm infants. In addition, these practices have a determinant role in adult health. We still have to learn a lot about the safety and effectiveness of nutrient administration in preterm infants; about techniques targeted at assessing the effect of different nutritional strategies; and about the long term effects of these regimens on developmental outcome, growth and disease. CONCLUSIONS: Despite recent advances in neonatal nutrition, basic and clinical research is still necessary so that the nutritional needs of preterm infants can be better defined and adequately provided.