Nutritional care for low birth weight (LBW) babies is crucial as they are at higher risk for health complications due to their fragile physical state. LBW babies typically weigh less than 2,500 grams at birth and require special attention to ensure proper growth and development. Their nutritional needs must be met through specialized feeding routines, often including breastfeeding, formula, or in some cases, intravenous feeding, depending on their ability to suck and digest.
Breast milk is the ideal source of nutrition for LBW babies, as it contains vital nutrients, antibodies, and growth factors that promote healthy development and strengthen the immune system. For babies unable to breastfeed, expressed breast milk or fortified formula can be given through a nasogastric tube. Regular monitoring of weight gain, blood sugar levels, and overall health is essential to ensure the baby is responding well to the nutritional care.
Dr. Shrawan Kumar, a renowned pediatrician at the New Born Care Centre (NBCC) in Patna, emphasizes the importance of following a strict feeding routine for LBW babies. He instructs parents and caregivers to focus on small, frequent feedings to meet the baby’s caloric needs without overwhelming their delicate digestive system. Dr. Kumar also stresses the need for kangaroo mother care (KMC), a technique that involves skin-to-skin contact, which helps regulate the baby’s body temperature and stimulates breastfeeding.
At NBCC, Patna, Dr. Kumar ensures that parents are educated on hygiene, feeding techniques, and the importance of regular follow-ups to monitor the baby’s progress. His guidance helps LBW babies thrive by ensuring they receive the right nutrition, care, and support during their critical early days of life.