When Can Babies Drink Water?

1201 Words3 Pages

Water is an important component of the body. Every cell and body organ depends on the presence of water for proper functioning. Parents are therefore hopeful that they can start their babies early on getting the healthy habit of drinking water. But before you give your little baby some water, read these useful tips for supplementing your baby's water intake.
When Can Babies Drink Water?
1. Experts believe that it is not a good idea to give babies water until they are about six months old. Babies usually get enough hydration from breast milk or their milk formula even when the weather is hot. This is because too much water can cause the baby's tummy to be full, which can reduce the desire to feed and interfere with the absorption of nutrients from milk. Small sips of water may not hurt the baby but it is advisable to consult the doctor before giving a baby some water before six months of age.
2. Is it safe for babies to drink water - according to timeline?
From birth - 3 months. Newborns should not be given water. Having a tiny belly, a newborn baby must not be given a bottle with water, which would fill its belly and take the place of milk. Babies need milk with its nutrients and calories for growth and development. In addition, too much water will disturb the normal balance of electrolytes in their bodies and can affect brain and heart function. Breast milk or milk formula provides sufficient fluids for your baby's hydration even in hot weather.
From 4-6 months. Although giving some water to infant of this age is not dangerous, it is nevertheless not necessary. Babies who breastfeed babies may nurse when they are thirsty during hot weather. Research shows breastfed babies do not need additional water even in tropical places wh...

... middle of paper ...

...it juice as a treat, limiting his intake to 4-6 oz per day. You can also dilute the juice with equal amounts of water to reduce the amount of sugar bathing their teeth.
It is advisable to use sippy cups only for drinking water to prevent leaving traces of fruit juice or milk in the cup. You can give your baby diluted fruit juice or milk from an open cup, which he can use during meals at the table.

Summary
Many parents are eager to introduce water to their babies as a way of weaning them from their bottles. However, experts say that drinking small amounts of water must begin only when the baby is about six months old.

Works Cited

http://www.babycenter.com/408_when-can-my-baby-drink-water_1368488.bc http://blog.isisparenting.com/does-my-baby-need-water-introducing-drinks-to-babies-and-toddlers/ http://www.homemade-baby-food-recipes.com/giving-water-to-baby.html

More about When Can Babies Drink Water?

Open Document