When can babies drink water? [Be careful of water intoxication]

Babies do not need to drink water until they are about six months of age. Starting from birth, the only fluid that they need is either from breastmilk or formula milk and nothing more. You could give your baby sips of water once he reaches six months, but make sure to start giving him around two to four ounces only.

When can babies drink water

If you give water to babies younger than six months, their bodies would have nutrient absorption problems. It could cause them to feel full, thereby decreasing their desire for milk. When it happens, they could become malnourished, causing them not to meet the desired weight.

Water intoxication

Rarely, but possible, babies could get water intoxication from drinking too much water. It could cause a seizure and then coma. Too much water in the babies' system could dilute sodium concentration, so they get electrolyte imbalance, which then causes their tissues to swell.

It could cause depletion of salt because too much water causes their kidneys to flush sodium and electrolytes out. Symptoms to look out for are: a body temperature of below 97 degrees, irritability, drowsiness, and swelling.

What a baby needs

Breastmilk or formula milk meets the nutritional needs of newborn babies. The American Academy of Pediatrics said that introducing water too early or giving too much water could cause water intoxication. For this to happen, it takes a lot of water to be at risk of this condition.

Usually, a six to twelve-month-old baby needs around two to eight ounces of water a day. Have them sip throughout the day to meet their needs. More often, their need for more water increases as they rely on nutrition from solid food.

What kind of water to give babies

You can feed your babies with tap water from a sippy cup or mixed with formula. It only applies to those who live in areas where tap water is regarded as safe for drinking. If in doubt, boil the water first, and let it cool before giving it to your baby.

Bottled water is okay to give, but it would be better to give tap water for teething babies. Fluoride is found in the public water supply. It is a mineral needed to help build strong enamel and prevents cavities from forming.

Exceptions to the rule

Even during summer, babies below six months of age do not need water. Seek your pediatrician's advice if your baby is constipated. He or she may suggest giving around two ounces of water per day to help soften your baby's stool. When your baby turns one year old, you may give him water regularly.

Tags Babies