What is the estimated total daily caloric needs for a newborn?

The estimated total daily caloric needs for a newborn is generally around 100-120 kcal/kg per day. This range is essential for supporting the rapid growth and development that occurs during the first few weeks of life. Newborns have high energy requirements due to their small body size and the significant physiological changes they undergo, such as developing their metabolic systems, increasing weight, and building healthy tissue.

Feeding a newborn within this caloric range ensures that their nutritional needs are met, enabling them to thrive as they transition from a dependent fetal state to an independent one. Providing adequate calories through breastfeeding or formula helps support their overall health, immune function, and growth milestones. It is essential to monitor newborns and adjust their caloric intake based on growth patterns and individual needs.

While other ranges are mentioned, they are either too low, which might not support the rapid growth alleviating the risk of inadequate caloric intake, or too high, which could lead to overfeeding and associated risks. Therefore, the range of 100-120 kcal/kg per day is the most appropriate for meeting the needs of a healthy, growing newborn.