Question
What causes newborns’ digestive disorders?
Answer
Newborns have an underdeveloped digestive system with less secretion of gastric acid and digestive enzymes, and their digestive enzymes have lower activity, making it difficult for the digestive system to adapt to dramatic changes in the quality and quantity of food. Additionally, newborns have poor regulatory function of the gastrointestinal tract due to their underdeveloped nervous system, and their immune system is also insufficient, all of which contribute to the symptoms of digestive disorders. It is recommended to give newborns oral medications such as Shanmai Jianpi Oral Liquid or Simeta, and in severe cases, immediate medical attention should be sought, which may require intravenous treatment. At the same time, it is advisable to extend the interval between feedings to allow the newborn’s gastrointestinal tract to rest and to provide more water. During the stage of introducing complementary foods, it is important to temporarily stop or reduce the addition of new complementary foods until symptoms improve before gradually resuming. Special attention should be paid to not feeding newborns with indigestible foods.