Introducing water into an infant's diet is an important part of hydration and overall infant health. But knowing when and how to start offering water to your baby can be confusing for new parents. Don't worry, we've got your back! In this blog post, we'll take a look at the nutritional needs of babies and discuss the best time and way to introduce water into their diets. With the right information, you can ensure that your baby is happy and hydrated! 😊
When is the right time to offer water to your little one?
According to the World Health Organization, the best time to begin introducing water to infants is around 6 months of age. This is the time babies start eating solid foods and their hydration needs shift accordingly. Introducing water at this stage can help babies stay hydrated and regulate their body temperatures.
However, it's crucial to wait until your baby hits the 6-month milestone as introducing water too early can increase the risk of diarrhea and other health issues. 💩 Before that, breastmilk or formula is all they need!
It’s also important to note that this is not the right time to try to introduce juice. Juice can be high in sugar and low in nutrition, which is not ideal for infant health. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that infants should not be given juice until they are at least 1 year old, so focus on introducing water first!
How do I introduce water to my baby safely?
First and foremost, water should always be given in a safe environment. Make sure your baby is somewhere like a high chair or playpen while they enjoy their sips. To avoid choking hazards, never leave them unattended with a cup of water or allow them to drink while they lay flat on their back.
It's essential to remember that breast milk or formula is still the primary source of nourishment and hydration for babies between 6 and 12 months. Water should be given between meals, not during meals, and should not replace breast milk or formula, so they still get all the nutrients they need. It’s all about balance! ☯️
Before you start introducing water, make sure your tap water is safe. There are many at-home test kits you can buy to screen for common contaminants like lead and bacteria. While most tap water is safe for your baby to drink, especially after being boiled, testing it can give you peace of mind. And of course, always be cautious about giving too much or too little water. We want to avoid constipation, dehydration, malnutrition, or water intoxication.
Oh, and one more thing - swap those bottles for cups! Bottles can interfere with proper feeding techniques and cause tooth decay. Opt for a small sippy cup or a regular cup with handles. It's all about building those healthy habits from an early age.
🌊 So, how much water is enough?💧
When introducing water to your baby, take it slow and steady. Start with a few sips and gradually increase the amount as your baby becomes more accustomed to drinking.
For babies between 6 and 12 months old, offering 2-3 ounces of water at a time (up to 8 ounces a day) should do the trick. As your child grows, their water needs will continue to increase. Toddlers (between 1 and 3 years old) need around 4 cups of liquid per day, including water, breast milk, or formula.
By following these tips, you can introduce water to your baby safely and effectively, ensuring proper nourishment and hydration. Here’s to keeping your little one happy, healthy, and hydrated! Cheers! 🦦
Citations
Iftikhar, Noreen. “Signs of Dehydration in Babies: Remedies and When to Worry.” Healthline, 23 Oct. 2020, www.healthline.com/health/baby/dehydration-in-babies#prevention.
“Water for Infants: When Is It Safe to Give Water to Infants?” Edited by Dan Brennan, WebMD, 27 Nov. 2021, www.webmd.com/parenting/baby/what-you-need-to-know-water-infants.
“Tap, Bottled, or Well Water: Which One Is Safe For Your Baby” Edited by Dan Brennan, WebMD, 9 June 2021, www.webmd.com/parenting/baby/what-to-know-about-water-for-baby-formula.