newborn nutritional needs Flashcards
What is the ideal source of nutrition for newborns?
Human milk.
When should nutritional education for infant feeding begin?
During the prenatal period.
What should parents/caregivers recognize as early signs of hunger in newborns?
Restlessness, tense body posture, and mouth movements.
Why should parents not wait for their newborn to cry before feeding?
Crying is a late sign of hunger.
How can newborn nutritional intake be assessed?
By monitoring voiding and stooling patterns.
When should a lactation consultant be consulted?
If there is any difficulty with breastfeeding.
How many calories per ounce do human milk and commercial formulas provide?
20 calories per ounce.
Why is cow’s milk not recommended for newborns?
It has a high solute load that can overwhelm the newborn’s kidneys and cause GI bleeding leading to anemia.
At what age can cow’s milk be introduced?
9 to 12 months.
What vitamin supplement is recommended for breastfed newborns?
400 IU of vitamin D daily, starting in the first few days of life.
Why is calcium important for newborns?
It supports rapid skeletal growth.
What type of formula should formula-fed infants receive for the first year?
Iron-enriched formula.
Why is iron supplementation important for some breastfed infants?
To prevent iron-deficiency anemia.
Why is fluoride important for newborns?
It helps build strong teeth and prevents tooth decay.
How can breastfeeding parents ensure their infant receives fluoride?
By drinking fluoridated water.
Why is adequate fluid intake important for newborns?
Their high metabolic rate and large surface area cause rapid water loss.
Why can newborns not conserve body water effectively?
Their kidneys are immature and cannot fully concentrate urine.
What is the role of linoleic acid in newborn nutrition?
It supports brain growth and skin integrity.
What essential fatty acids are found in human milk?
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and arachidonic acid (ARA).
Why should fat-free milk not be given to newborns?
Fat is crucial for brain and nerve growth.
What is the primary carbohydrate in human milk and commercial formulas?
Lactose.
What are some advantages of breastfeeding for the parent?
Helps uterine involution, reduces risk of breast/ovarian cancer, supports weight loss, delays menstruation, lowers osteoporosis risk, and enhances bonding.
How does breastfeeding benefit the newborn?
Provides anti-infective properties, optimal electrolyte balance, easy-to-digest lactose for brain growth, and reduced allergy risk.
How does breastfeeding contribute to speech development?
It aids in proper dental arch formation for common speech sounds.
What does “LATCH” stand for in breastfeeding assessment?
Latch, Audible swallowing, Type of nipple, Comfort (breast/nipple), Hold (positioning).
Who regulates the contents of commercial infant formulas?
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
What are the three main types of commercial formulas?
Modified milk-based, soy-based, and lactose-free formulas.
Until what age should formula-fed infants continue on formula?
The first year of life.
