What Is the Apgar Score and How Can Ayurveda Help in Supporting a Newborn’s Health and Development Naturally?

Question

I recently learned about the Apgar score, which doctors use to evaluate a newborn’s health immediately after birth. Since I am expecting my first child soon, I want to understand what this test measures and whether it has long-term implications for a baby’s health.

From what I understand, the Apgar score is given at one minute and five minutes after birth to assess a baby’s breathing, heart rate, muscle tone, reflexes, and skin color. But what I do not fully understand is whether a low Apgar score always means a baby has health problems. Can factors like a difficult labor, cesarean section, or temporary breathing issues cause a lower score, even if the baby is healthy?

I am also curious about how Ayurveda views newborn health and development. Are there specific Ayurvedic practices or herbal remedies that can help strengthen a baby’s immunity and support healthy growth? I have read about Swarna Bindu Prashana (a gold-infused herbal remedy) being used in Ayurveda for boosting immunity—does it help babies with a low Apgar score?

Another concern I have is whether a mother’s diet and lifestyle during pregnancy affect the baby’s Apgar score. Does Ayurveda recommend any specific foods, herbs, or lifestyle practices that can help ensure the baby is born strong and healthy?

If anyone has experience using Ayurveda to support newborn health, I would love to hear what worked for them. I want to make sure I am doing everything I can to give my baby the best start in life.

Dr Sujal Patil · Accepted Answer

The Apgar score is a quick assessment done at one and five minutes after birth to evaluate a newborn’s health based on five factors: skin color, heart rate, reflexes, muscle tone, and breathing effort. Each factor is scored from 0 to 2, with a total score of 10. A score of 7 or above is normal, while a lower score may indicate temporary issues such as a difficult birth, cesarean section, or preterm delivery, rather than long-term health concerns. Most babies with a low initial Apgar score improve within a few minutes with medical support.

Ayurveda focuses on building strong immunity (Ojas) and balancing Vata dosha in newborns for healthy growth. Traditional practices like Swarna Bindu Prashana, an herbal gold-infused remedy, are believed to support immunity and cognitive development. Gentle oil massages (Abhyanga) with warm sesame or coconut oil help in strengthening bones and improving circulation. Additionally, a mother’s postnatal diet, rich in milk, ghee, nuts, and iron-rich foods, plays a key role in nourishing both mother and baby.

During pregnancy, Ayurveda recommends a Sattvic diet with nourishing foods like almonds, dates, and herbal teas to ensure a baby’s strong development. Gentle yoga, meditation, and pranayama help reduce stress and promote a calm nervous system, which can positively impact the baby’s overall health. A well-balanced pregnancy and postnatal routine can naturally support a newborn’s vitality, regardless of their initial Apgar score.

What Is the Apgar Score and How Can Ayurveda Help in Supporting a Newborn’s Health and Development Naturally? - #16069

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