Chapter 24: Newborn Nutrition & Feeding

Newborn Nutrition & Feeding begins by emphasizing that human milk is the gold standard for infant development, offering a complex mix of anti-infective properties, growth factors, and ideal ratios of macronutrients like lactose, whey, and essential fatty acids. The text details the physiological mechanisms of lactation, explaining how hormones like prolactin and oxytocin regulate milk production and the ejection reflex, while outlining the progression from colostrum to mature milk. For healthcare professionals, the chapter provides comprehensive guidance on assessing feeding effectiveness using tools like the LATCH system and monitoring clinical indicators such as infant weight gain and elimination patterns. It addresses diverse family structures, including LGBTQIA parents, and cultural influences that shape feeding decisions, while also noting specific contraindications like galactosemia or maternal HIV. Special attention is given to the management of common breastfeeding challenges, including engorgement, nipple discomfort, and mastitis, alongside evidence-based interventions like skin-to-skin contact and manual expression. For those utilizing breast milk substitutes, the chapter outlines the safe preparation of iron-fortified commercial formulas, highlighting the importance of proper dilution and storage to prevent nutritional imbalances or foodborne illness. Finally, it discusses the transition to complementary solid foods at around six months, establishing a lifelong foundation for healthy eating habits through patient-centered education and interprofessional support.