Jaundice in newborns is a common condition that causes the skin and eyes to turn yellow. It happens when there is too much bilirubin in the blood, a yellow substance that forms when the body breaks down old red blood cells. The liver is supposed to process and remove bilirubin, but a newborn’s liver may not be fully developed, which can cause bilirubin to build up in the blood.
For most babies, jaundice is not serious and usually goes away on its own within two to three weeks. However, in some cases, jaundice can cause discomfort for the baby and may require treatment. While medical treatments, such as phototherapy, are commonly used to treat jaundice, there are also natural remedies that can help manage and reduce jaundice in newborns.
In this article, we will explore natural ways to support your baby’s liver and help reduce jaundice. We will also discuss when to seek medical help if the condition worsens or persists. Natural remedies can be a helpful complement to traditional treatments, but it is important to monitor the baby closely and work with a healthcare provider to ensure their safety and well-being.
What Causes Jaundice in Newborns?
Before we dive into natural treatments, it’s important to understand what causes jaundice in newborns. There are two main types of jaundice in newborns:
Physiological Jaundice: This is the most common type of jaundice in newborns. It happens because a newborn’s liver is still developing and is not yet efficient at processing bilirubin. This type of jaundice typically appears within the first few days after birth and goes away on its own within one to two weeks.
Pathological Jaundice: This type of jaundice is caused by underlying health issues, such as blood group incompatibility, infection, or liver problems. Pathological jaundice may appear within the first 24 hours of life or last longer than two weeks and requires medical attention.
In both cases, jaundice occurs when the bilirubin in the baby’s blood builds up and the liver is not yet fully able to process it. While physiological jaundice is usually mild and resolves without treatment, it is important to monitor the baby closely to ensure that the jaundice does not become severe.
Natural Remedies for Jaundice in Newborns
While jaundice in newborns often resolves on its own, there are natural remedies that can help promote the baby’s liver function and reduce the levels of bilirubin in the body. These remedies should always be used with caution and in consultation with a healthcare provider.
1. Breastfeeding Frequently
Breastfeeding is one of the most important natural remedies for jaundice in newborns. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding for newborns, as breast milk provides essential nutrients and antibodies that support the baby’s overall health.
Frequent breastfeeding helps keep the baby hydrated and promotes healthy bowel movements. The more the baby feeds, the more waste is eliminated through urine and stool, which can help remove excess bilirubin from the body.
If a mother is having difficulty breastfeeding, it is important to get support from a lactation consultant or healthcare provider. Sometimes, jaundice can worsen if the baby is not getting enough milk, so it’s important to ensure that breastfeeding is going well.
2. Sunlight Exposure
One of the most well-known natural remedies for jaundice in newborns is sunlight exposure. Mild sunlight helps break down bilirubin in the skin, promoting its elimination from the body. However, it’s important to use sunlight cautiously to avoid sunburn, as a newborn’s skin is delicate and sensitive.
To use sunlight exposure as a natural remedy, place the baby in a well-lit room with natural sunlight. You can let the baby lie on a soft blanket in the sun for 10 to 15 minutes at a time, a few times a day. The sunlight should be gentle, and the baby should not be exposed to direct sunlight for long periods, as this can be harmful.
It is best to avoid sunlight exposure during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), as the sun is stronger during these times. Always make sure that the baby is not overheated or exposed to direct sunlight for too long.
3. Hydration
Staying hydrated is crucial for both the mother and the baby when managing jaundice. Breast milk is the best source of hydration for a newborn, and frequent feeding ensures that the baby is getting enough fluids. This helps the baby pass more urine and stool, which can aid in the elimination of bilirubin from the body.
For mothers who are not breastfeeding, formula feeding should be used to ensure that the baby gets enough fluids. If you are concerned about your baby’s hydration, it is important to speak with a pediatrician to ensure that your baby is getting the appropriate amount of milk or formula.
4. Massage
Gentle massage can help improve circulation and support liver function in newborns with jaundice. A soft, soothing massage can stimulate the liver and help the body process bilirubin more effectively. Always use gentle strokes, and avoid putting too much pressure on the baby’s delicate skin.
To perform a gentle massage, place your baby on a soft, comfortable surface. Use your fingertips to lightly massage the baby’s body, focusing on the abdomen and the back. Be sure to use gentle, circular motions and avoid pressing too hard on the baby’s tummy.
Massage should be done in a calm and relaxing environment, and it should never be forced. If your baby seems uncomfortable or upset during the massage, stop immediately and consult your pediatrician for advice.
5. Chiropractic Care
Some parents choose to seek chiropractic care for their newborns as a natural remedy for jaundice. Chiropractic care focuses on spinal adjustments that may help improve the function of the nervous system and promote overall health. Some believe that chiropractic adjustments can help improve the liver’s ability to process bilirubin.
However, there is limited scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of chiropractic care for jaundice in newborns. If you are considering chiropractic treatment for your baby, it is important to consult with a pediatric chiropractor who is experienced in treating newborns and to discuss any concerns with your baby’s pediatrician.
6. Herbal Remedies (Under Supervision)
Certain herbs, such as dandelion root and milk thistle, are believed to support liver function and may help reduce jaundice in newborns. However, herbal remedies should be used with caution and only under the supervision of a healthcare provider.
Herbal remedies can interact with other medications, and their safety for newborns has not been well studied. Always consult with your pediatrician before using any herbal supplements or remedies for jaundice.
7. Monitor Baby’s Health and Jaundice Levels
One of the most important things to do when managing jaundice in newborns is to monitor the baby’s health closely. If you notice that the jaundice is getting worse or that your baby is not feeding well, it’s important to seek medical attention.
In most cases, jaundice in newborns will resolve on its own within a few weeks. However, if the jaundice does not improve or if the baby’s bilirubin levels become dangerously high, medical intervention may be necessary. This may include phototherapy, which uses special blue light to break down bilirubin in the skin.
8. Avoid Over-the-Counter Medications
While it may be tempting to try over-the-counter treatments for jaundice, it is important to avoid giving any medications to a newborn without the guidance of a healthcare provider. Many medications can have harmful side effects for babies and may not be effective in treating jaundice.
Always consult with your pediatrician before using any over-the-counter medications or treatments for jaundice.
When to Seek Medical Help
While jaundice is common in newborns and often resolves on its own, it is important to seek medical help if:
- The jaundice appears within the first 24 hours after birth (this may indicate pathological jaundice).
- The baby’s skin becomes more yellow or the jaundice lasts longer than two weeks.
- The baby is not feeding well or is very lethargic.
- There are signs of discomfort, such as crying or irritability, that cannot be soothed.
If you are ever unsure about your baby’s condition, it is always better to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure the baby’s health and safety.
Conclusion
Jaundice in newborns is a common and often temporary condition, but it can be uncomfortable for the baby. While medical treatments are commonly used to manage jaundice, there are also natural remedies that can help support the baby’s liver function and reduce bilirubin levels. These include frequent breastfeeding, gentle sunlight exposure, hydration, massage, and avoiding over-the-counter medications.
It’s important to monitor your baby’s condition and seek medical help if the jaundice becomes severe or does not improve. By working closely with your healthcare provider and using natural remedies alongside medical treatments, you can help your baby recover from jaundice and ensure their overall health and well-being.
Related topics:
