In the first hour after birth, the glucose level in a healthy newborn is typically:

• A. It is increased
• B. It is decreased
• C. It remains unchanged
• D. It fluctuates widely

Answer: (B)

At birth the baby undergoes a metabolic transition: the placenta no longer supplies glucose, and the infant’s own glucose regulation lags behind. The initial high insulin exposure from intrauterine life promotes glucose uptake into cells, so blood glucose tends to fall. This temporary dip is normal as the infant relies on stored glycogen and starts gluconeogenesis until feeding provides a new glucose source. In healthy term newborns, glucose commonly falls to around 40–60 mg/dL in the first hours after birth and may be a bit lower, but it should rise once feeding begins. If feeding is delayed or insufficient, the drop can be more pronounced, highlighting the importance of early, adequate feeding to stabilize glucose levels.