Disclosed embodiments provide a method of enhancing maturation of a lung, brain, or both, in an infant. The method includes the step of administering to the infant a nutritional composition comprising a protein with a degree of hydrolysis of 10% to 75%. Also disclosed are methods for reducing the incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis in an individual. In addition, the disclosed embodiments provide a method for the prevention, delay of progression, or the treatment of a circulatory disorder characterized by inadequate blood flow to the brain or lung.