A baby is treated with UV light for hyperbilirubinemia. What kind of diet should be prescribed?

The appropriate diet prescribed for a baby undergoing treatment with UV light for hyperbilirubinemia should focus on providing high fluid intake. Hyperbilirubinemia, commonly known as jaundice, occurs when there is an excess of bilirubin in the blood, often due to the immature liver function in newborns. The treatment with UV light, specifically phototherapy, helps to break down bilirubin into a form that can be more easily excreted by the body.

An increased fluid intake helps to promote hydration, which is essential for optimal liver function and the excretion of bilirubin through urine and stool. Maintaining adequate hydration levels can also enhance the efficacy of the phototherapy by supporting overall health and facilitating the breakdown and elimination of bilirubin.

While protein, carbohydrates, and fiber are important components of nutrition, they do not directly address the critical need for fluid balance in a baby receiving treatment for hyperbilirubinemia. Thus, the emphasis on high fluid intake signifies its role in managing and supporting the baby's condition effectively.