Neonatal Hypoglycemia: Oral Dextrose Gel and Tahneek Practice

Abstract In this article, we reviewed the use of oral dextrose gel in neonatal hypoglycemia (NH) and examined tahneek practices from past to present to draw attention to the importance of tahneek for newborn infants. NH, a common metabolic problem, is one of the most common causes of neonatal seizures. A universal approach to diagnosis and management of NH is still lacking. Although oral dextrose gel is the recommended first-line treatment for the management of NH, it may cause a hyperinsulinemic response. Date is an essential high-energy food with a low glycemic index. Tahneek, rubbing of chewed date on the soft palate of the neonate immediately after delivery, has been performed for over 1,400 years because it is one of the Prophet Muhammad's (Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam) sunnahs. It has been noted that tahneek may be alternative to dextrose gel for prophylaxis and treatment of NH; however, no clinical study has been published about this subject according to the best of our knowledge. We think that tahneek practice is more effective, and safer option than oral dextrose gel because of low glycemic index of date. We also believe that tahneek practice has many benefits for newborn infants, because dates have antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. Randomized controlled studies, including large series, should be conducted about effects of tahneek practice on newborns.