Jaundice

WHAT causes Jaundice?
*Excessive Red Blood Cell (RBC) destruction- bile obstruction from gallstones,
tumors, or parasites or liver cell infection
*Permanent liver damage may occur if obstruction persists > 4 weeks
*Overproduction of bilirubin, impaired uptake, or defective conjugation of bilirubin
*Baby has jaundice- put them in the sunlight, indirect or direct but make sure
they do not get sunburned
 -70% of normal babies- develop jaundice which usually disappears
10 to 14 postnatal days, as well as enlargement of the breasts in fullterm infants
WHAT CAN I DO?
*A well balanced diet high in Protein and Calories and low in Fat
-See FFF for Protein, Calories and Fat
*Ask your Physician about supplements of Vitamin D, K,
Iron, Calcium and other nutrients
-See FFF for Vitamins and Minerals
*Avoid- alcoholic beverages
*See your Physician immediately
*Talk with Registered Dietitian
*See a FFF RD on line for help as needed
What Is Jaundice?
*Jaundice- results from an accumulation of bile or bilirubin resulting in
a yellowish discoloration of the skin, mucous membranes and some body fluids
*Presence of total serum bilirubin > 1.5 mg/100 ml. and clinically apparent at levels
> 3.0 mg/100 ml.
*Most bilirubin- formed in the spleen with destruction of the RBC’s
(Red Blood Cell’s)