When should zinc supplementation begin for newborns?
Oct 13, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xie Zixing
Introduction
If newborns have poor fluid regulation, excessive sweating may lead to zinc deficiency, or they may develop lactose intolerance or milk protein allergy, causing diarrhea and subsequent loss of zinc. After hospital testing confirms zinc deficiency, supplementation can be appropriately administered as directed by a physician to improve the condition. Additionally, after three months of age, infants experience accelerated growth rates, making them more prone to zinc deficiency. In such cases, appropriate zinc supplementation under medical guidance may be used preventively.
The timing for zinc supplementation in newborns should be determined based on whether or not the infant is deficient in zinc, as detailed below:
1. After birth, if a newborn has poor fluid regulation and sweats excessively, zinc deficiency may occur. If laboratory tests at a hospital confirm zinc deficiency, appropriate zinc supplementation can be administered under medical guidance to improve the condition.
2. If a newborn has lactose intolerance or milk protein allergy, digestive issues often lead to diarrhea, which can result in zinc loss. In such cases, appropriate zinc supplementation under a doctor's supervision may help alleviate the deficiency.
3. Under normal circumstances, infants can obtain all necessary nutrients from breast milk during the first three months of life. However, after three months, due to an increased growth rate, zinc deficiency may become more likely. At this stage, zinc supplementation under medical advice may be appropriate to prevent symptoms associated with zinc deficiency, such as yellowish hair, reduced appetite, picky eating, and delayed development.
When newborns are diagnosed with zinc deficiency, doctors may recommend zinc supplements for treatment. Commonly used medications include zinc gluconate oral solution and lysine zinc granules.
