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Neonatal overfeeding, a multifaceted and complex issue, represents a critical concern in the realm of Paediatric health, as it pertains to the excessive provision of nutrition to newborns during the initial stages of life. This phenomenon, characterized by an imbalance between caloric intake and energy expenditure in neonates, poses significant risks to their short-term well-being and long-term development. The intricate interplay of factors contributing to neonatal overfeeding includes parental feeding practices, societal norms, and the inherent vulnerability of infants in their formative days. Neonates subjected to overfeeding often encounter immediate consequences such as rapid weight gain, metabolic disturbances, and gastrointestinal issues, which may, in turn, precipitate a cascade of health challenges extending into infancy and later stages of life. Moreover, the long-term implications of neonatal overfeeding are increasingly recognized, encompassing a higher predisposition to obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic disorders in adulthood. Understanding the intricate physiological responses to overnutrition in neonates is pivotal in devising effective preventive strategies and interventions. This necessitates a holistic approach involving healthcare professionals, caregivers, and policymakers to promote informed feeding practices, encourage breastfeeding as the gold standard, and establish robust support systems for parents. As the scientific community delves deeper into the intricate mechanisms underlying neonatal overfeeding, the imperative remains to translate this knowledge into actionable guidelines that safeguard the health and well-being of the most vulnerable members of our population during their earliest and most critical developmental phase.
