Second module: Newborn constipation relief is the first line of support for newborn jaundice

Learn how to think critically about dehydration and constipation, two of the most common preventable causes of physiological newborn jaundice

Let’s look at the first preventable cause of newborn jaundice: lack of hydration and subsequent dehydration and constipation

Lack of hydration, or dehydration, is a common problem in pregnancy and breastfeeding. If a mama is dehydrated, can her baby who is dependent upon her also be dehydrated? Of course! And then what happes? Her baby can get constipated and have less pee… leading to increased bilirubin circulating and possibly a jaundice diagnosis. What is the prescription? 

It’s important for newborns to make lots of wet and dirty diapers… otherwise, they are at increased risk for jaundice.

Here’s our first paradigm shift. 

Current wisdom says mama needs breastfeed more to help relieve their baby’s constipation. 

Current wisdom says to support herself by drinking lots of water and electrolytes, and avoiding diuretics. All good advice and great places to start.

But, that advice completely overlooks the way cells are hydrated. Cells are not actually hydrated by the water we drink—at least,…