photo credit: myreado2
Irrefutably, the power of touch is immensely soothing for an infant. After having spent many months immersed in a warm, fluid environment, the outside world can feel extremely barren, cold, and unpredictable. Infant massage has been shown to alter hormone levels in babies and reduce anxiety and stress while promoting relaxation. Physiological effects of massage include mobilizing fluids, washing out metabolic waste products (i.e. lactic acid) that build up in muscles, and promoting blood flow. Muscles, after being massaged, have decreased spasm. The tactile stimulation can activate nerve fibers carrying touch sensation and the sensory input from those fibers can decrease pain signals to the brain via the Gate Theory of pain. Thus, reducing the perception of pain.
In many cultures, massage with tropical oils is routine. The tropical oil massage provides multiple benefits. Oil based substances improve skin barrier function and protect the skin. Massage has been shown to improve thermoregulation. A compelling study from India looked at the effects of massage with coconut oil, mineral oil, and placebo (powder). Coconut oil massage caused greater weight and height gain rates compared to placebo in preterm and term infants.
The weight gain is thought to be due to transcutaneous (through the skin) absorption . Coconut oil is a saturated fat rich in medium chain triglycerides. Because of the more thin, vascular skin of preterm babies, the oil is readily absorbed. In fact, studies have shown change in fatty acid profiles following massage in infants. The absorbed oil is bio-available to fill nutritional needs. This may cause the resultant improved weight gain with coconut oil massage.
The long- term effect of the absorbed coconut oil is not known. However, coconut oil is a saturated fat made of medium chain fatty acids. Its metabolism is different that that of animal based saturated fats. Medium chain fatty acids do not undergo degradation and re-esterification in the body and are used directly to produce energy. Undoubtedly, further research is needed to elucidate the health profile of coconut oil. However, it can be used to promote weight gain via massage for infants.
Please note, through out Southeast Asia, coconut oil is thought to promote hair growth; although there is no scientific or clinical evidence to support this claim.
References:
5. DeLisa, JA, Gans BM. Rehabilitation Medicine Principles and Practices. 3rd edition. Philadelphia: Lippencott Williams &Wilkins, 1998; 538-540.
