Question
My baby is just three days old. The doctor said it has physiological jaundice. I’ve heard that giving the baby glucose water can help lighten the jaundice. I’m not sure if we can give it to him.
Answer
Neonatal jaundice usually appears within 2-3 days after birth, reaches its peak between 5-7 days, and subsides between 10-14 days. For premature babies, it may take up to 3-4 weeks to disappear. However, the baby’s general condition is good, and appetite is normal. It is recommended that mothers observe the baby for a few days. If the jaundice does not recede, it may be necessary to check the serum bilirubin at the hospital. In the meantime, give the baby some sugar water and expose them to sunlight more often. Glucose indeed has a deyellowing effect, so add a little to each glass of water, and stop once the baby’s jaundice has completely cleared.