Most expectant parents have only one prayer that the baby boy or girl is completely healthy. But, many times these prayers do not come true. One of the most common problems and challenges associated with newborns is a lower than average baby weight. According to the World Health Organization, children whose birth weight is less than 2.5 kg are considered low birth weight. In our country, 20 percent of newborns have less than normal weight. Babies born prematurely are not always underweight. Babies who spend 40 weeks in the womb may also weigh less than normal. Care and feeding of such children need special attention. They are also more vulnerable to infections and other health problems. Newborn babies weighing less than 1.5 kg need to be kept in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) until they gain some weight. Because this low weight can be fatal for the baby. Let’s find out what kind of strategies can be effective in gaining weight in such children:
Breastfeeding is most effective
Breast milk is the most important for all babies, but it is no less than nectar for low birth weight newborns. Mother’s milk contains a lot of nutrients and antibodies, which are very important for the development of the baby’s body. So it is recommended to breastfeed the babies and if the baby has low birth weight then breastfeed such babies for as long as possible. Breast milk is fortified by adding protein and other essential nutrients, which increases both the nutritional value and calories of breast milk. Eating this kind of milk increases the weight of the baby and also improves health. If your newborn baby is underweight, breastfeed him more often than normal babies. An underweight baby will have less milk intake than a normal weight baby, so he/she will not be able to drink more milk at a time. If you feed him small amounts of milk, it can help him gain weight.
Close monitoring is required
For newborns who are underweight, doctors recommend checking them at regular intervals to monitor their weight and physical development.
Consult an expert
Sometimes the baby has trouble breastfeeding; It may be due to some problem of mother or baby. In such situations, it may be beneficial to seek the help of a trained lactation consultant or lactation therapist.
Protect against infection
Babies with low birth weight are at higher risk. It can prevent weight gain. In this case, take special care of the cleanliness of the child and its surroundings. Protect him from contact with sick people.
There is no rush
Newborn babies have a very delicate body and it is important to pay attention to this when keeping them underweight. So don’t be in a hurry to increase the baby’s weight. Let him gain weight slowly and in a healthy way.
The effect of touch
Kangaroo Mother Care, frequent skin-to-skin contact with the mother of a newborn baby, plays a positive role in its development and weight gain. When the baby’s skin is in direct contact with the mother’s skin, he feels the mother’s emotional and physical warmth, which helps him gain weight.
Calorie supplements
Babies with low birth weight need more calories to grow. If these needs are not met by breastfeeding, doctors suggest products/supplements that can provide more calories to the baby.
