Babies and Haemoglobin: Newborn babies arrive in this world with HbF [Foetal Haemoglobin] which is gradually replaced by normal haemoglobin. Prior to birth this form of Hb helps the baby absorb as much oxygen as possible from the mother's bloodstream. Neonates also have a fairly high level of Hb which also aids in this process but because the baby no longer needs such a high level of HbF to help absorb oxygen it starts to get rid of the excess cells. It is the breakdown products of this process, combined with a slightly immature liver, which produce the very common Neonatal Jaundice which resolves quickly and may or may not require phototherapy. The neonate has a lot of growing to do and red blood cell production may not quite keep pace with this growth giving an apparently low Hb. This is compounded by the fact that milk does not contain much iron or folic acid. This is all perfectly normal and usually resolves itself once the baby starts mixed feeding. There isn't usually any need for extra supplements and, to be sensible, none should be given unless prescribed by a doctor.