The condition known as jaundice (yellow skin and eyes) is a result of a build-up of bilirubin and is usually a sign of liver malfunction. Newborn human infants often go through a period of fetal jaundice in which they turn yellow. This usually reflects not a liver malfunction, but rather the destruction of huge numbers of red blood cells. Why would newborns be cashing in so many red blood cells? In serious cases, neonates are often put under special lights that promote the breakdown of bilirubin. However, recent evidence demonstrates that bilirubin is a potent anti-oxidant. Why would a neonate need so many anti-oxidants?

Why would newborns be cashing in so many red blood cells?

The possibe sources for the hematocrit are influx of RBC from other sources to the Fetus. e. g., leakage of RBC from the twin child in case of twin pregnancy, possible overproduction of RBC in the fetus, Leakage of some RBC through the umbilical cord to the child close to delivery.

Why would noenates need so much antioxidants

The increased oxidative stress in neonates with Jaundice, leads to loss of antioxidants and ascorbic acids. The loses disrupted their metabolism and therefore the natural ability to fight the oxidative stress.

Consequently, increase in the oxidative stress couple with lack of antioxidant leads to neural cell death.

Therefore, antioxodant is needed to prevent neural cell death and to withstand oxidative stress.