Nutritional Needs of the Newborn Baby

This commentary provides an overview of the nutritional needs of the newborn baby, both term and preterm and/or with low birth weight (LBW). The topic is discussed within the context of recognising the importance of early feeding to optimise physical growth and intellectual outcomes. The provision of optimal nutrition forms an essential part of the care of both well and hospitalised newborns. Early feeding, ideally straight from birth, to deliver essential nutrients for growth and development is paramount.