Breastfeeding jaundice is primarily due to which of the following factors?

Breastfeeding jaundice is primarily attributed to inadequate feeding. This condition occurs in newborns who are not receiving enough breast milk during the early days of life, leading to dehydration and suboptimal caloric intake. Inadequate feeding can result in insufficient elimination of bilirubin, as bilirubin is primarily excreted in the stool. A lack of breast milk causes the infant to have fewer bowel movements and delays the removal of bilirubin from the body, contributing to an increase in serum bilirubin levels.

This type of jaundice typically emerges within the first week of life when babies may struggle to latch effectively or when mothers face challenges with milk production. Early and frequent breastfeeding helps to stimulate milk production and facilitates bowel movements in infants, thereby reducing bilirubin levels.

Other factors like overfeeding, allergic reactions, or formula feeding do not typically lead to breastfeeding jaundice. Overfeeding may not produce the same effects on bilirubin levels as inadequate feeding, and allergic reactions or formula feeding are unrelated to the mechanisms producing breastfeeding jaundice. Understanding the significance of adequate feeding is crucial for managing and preventing this type of jaundice in newborns.