Why is withholding enteral feeds for prolonged periods of time a main strategy for reducing NEC risk?

• A. The development of NEC is a concern in the neonate, although the etiology remains unclear, NEC often occurs in infants who are being fed via the GI tract
• B. Withholding feeds completely prevents NEC
• C. Withholding feeds improves gut maturation
• D. Withholding feeds has no impact on NEC

Answer: (A)