What is a common indicator that a newborn is not receiving enough nutrition?

A low activity level in a newborn is a crucial indicator that they may not be receiving adequate nutrition. Newborns typically exhibit a certain level of alertness and activity; when they are not feeding well, either due to inadequate intake or difficulty in latching, they may become lethargic or less active. This decrease in activity can reflect not just fatigue but also a lack of energy, which is fundamentally linked to a lack of nutrition.

In comparison, frequent urination, while important to monitor, can vary based on liquid intake and the newborn's hydration status, and does not necessarily imply insufficient nutrition. Similarly, persistent jaundice might indicate other underlying health issues, such as liver function or hemolysis, rather than nutritional insufficiency alone. Lastly, excessive weight gain is generally a sign of sufficient nutrition, as it reflects good caloric intake, therefore not supporting the idea of insufficient nutrition. These factors contribute to understanding why a low activity level stands out as a key indicator of inadequate feeding in newborns.