How to supplement zinc deficiency in newborns

Oct 13, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xie Zixing
Introduction
If laboratory tests confirm that a newborn has zinc deficiency, mothers who are breastfeeding should make appropriate dietary adjustments by consuming more zinc-rich foods such as chicken, beef, and pork to help supplement zinc for the baby. Additionally, under medical guidance, they may choose to take zinc supplements to increase zinc intake.

Zinc deficiency in newborns can be addressed by mothers adjusting their diet or taking medications to increase zinc levels.

1. Dietary adjustment by the mother

If a newborn experiences diarrhea leading to excessive zinc loss, or nutritional deficiencies causing zinc deficiency, and hospital tests confirm low zinc levels, breastfeeding mothers should appropriately adjust their diet. They can consume more zinc-rich foods to help supplement zinc for the newborn, such as chicken, beef, pork, etc.

2. Medication

If a newborn shows symptoms such as decreased appetite or excessive sweating clearly caused by zinc deficiency, zinc supplements may be taken under a doctor's guidance. Commonly used medications include zinc gluconate oral solution and licorice zinc granules, which can effectively improve zinc levels.

Under normal circumstances, newborns can obtain sufficient zinc from breast milk during the first three months. After three months, due to rapid growth and development, zinc deficiency may occur. At this stage, zinc supplementation under medical supervision can help prevent deficiency.

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