New Delhi: A newborn baby’s typical weight ranges from 2.5 to 3.5 kg. A baby who is born with a birth weight of less than 2.5kg is known as a low birth weight baby (LBW). Low birth weight (LBW) in newborns can result from a variety of factors, often related to the health and conditions of the mother during pregnancy, as well as the baby’s own development like premature birth, intrauterine growth restriction due to high blood pressure in mother or poor blood flow to baby, intrauterine infections, malnutrition in mother, chronic conditions in mother or sometimes due to multiple pregnancies and so on. Sometimes it could be constitutional where babies to be born with less birth weight in the family.
In an interaction with News9Live, Dr Tejas Hambir, Consultant – Paediatrics, Neonatology & Intensive Care Unit, Jupiter Hospital, Pune, shared some simple tips for parents to increase the birth weight of babies.
The following tips may help in having a healthy postnatal period for your baby.
Tip 1: Ensure Adequate Nutrition
- Feeding: Feeding your baby adequately is vital to their growth.
- Breastfeeding: If possible, breastfeeding provides essential nutrients and antibodies to help your baby grow and build immunity.
- Formula Feeding: If breastfeeding isn’t an option, fortified formula designed for premature or low birth weight babies can provide the necessary calories and nutrients.
- Frequent Feedings: Newborns with LBW may need to feed more often (every 2-3 hours) to help them gain weight. A well-balanced diet for a mother is vital for producing nutritious breast milk. Consume adequate protein, healthy fats, and plenty of water or liquids. It is critical to acquire adequate iron and calcium. Some foods that can help improve the quantity and quality of breastmilk include barley, fennel, Fenugreek seeds, green vegetables, and whole grains like papaya and oats. Avoid consuming items that induce inflammation.
Tip 2: Practice Skin-to-Skin Contact
Holding your baby skin-to-skin also known as kangaroo mother care can help regulate their body temperature, promote bonding, and encourage breastfeeding. Studies have shown that this contact can help low-birth-weight babies gain weight and stabilise their heart rate and breathing.
Tip 3: Encourage Bonding and Attachment
While some LBW babies may spend time in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), it’s important to engage with your baby as much as possible. Talking, singing, and making eye contact help foster emotional bonding and can also stimulate developmental progress.
Tip 4: Create a Safe Sleep Environment
Premature or low-birth-weight babies may be at an increased risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). To reduce this risk:
- Always place your baby on their back to sleep.
- Ensure a firm mattress and keep the crib free of pillows, blankets, or stuffed animals.
- Room-share (but don’t bed-share) for the first six months to keep a close eye on your baby during sleep.
Tip 5: Watch for Signs of Infection
Low birth weight babies may have less developed immune systems, making them more susceptible to infections. Watch for signs such as fever, difficulty breathing, or a change in feeding habits. If you notice any unusual symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.
Tip 6: Regular follow-up with Pediatrician
It’s crucial to stay in close contact with your pediatrician to monitor weight gain, feeding problems, jaundice, and developmental milestones.
Tip 7: Stay Positive and Seek Support
- Caring for a baby with low birth weight can be challenging, both physically and emotionally. Seek support from healthcare professionals, family, and support groups.
- Nevertheless, low birth weight babies can present challenges, but many babies grow into healthy, thriving children with the right support and care.
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