By Sr Teresa Hayward (RN, RM, Lactation consultant, Infant & Paediatric Nutritionist, Baby Sleep Consultant)
I see moms often that have been told to introduce water at birth. They are often giving what they call a WATER BOTTLE with gripe water in and this can be as much as 50 to 70mls
When Can You Give Your Baby Water?
Babies do not need additional water in the first months of life, even in very hot weather. Breastmilk is 88% water; formula is also composed of mostly water. As long as a baby is free to nurse or bottlefeed as needed, they will receive exactly what they need to stay hydrated and healthy.
When can babies drink water?
We advise that you should not give your baby water until after they start eating solids. While this is typically around 4-6 months, doctors agree that you should not give water to a child until they are at least 6 months old.
How much water can you give your baby?
You can begin giving small amounts of water. They still don’t need it, but they can be given between 50 to 100mls a day over the age of 6 months. Give no more than 100mls per 24 hours from 6-12 months of age, unless instructed by your child’s paediatrician or feeding specialist. The amount can increase (and should, to prevent constipation) after 1 year of age, as their milk volume decreases to 450mls per day
What are the risks of giving my baby water before 6 months old?
Giving your baby water before their body is ready for it can cause certain problems:
Lack of nutrients. Breastmilk and formula are created to give your baby the number of nutrients he needs for optimal health and growth. If you give your baby too much water, there is concern that he will fill up on it instead of taking in the amount of breastmilk or formula he needs. This could lead to a dilution of the nutrients your baby needs to thrive, which in turn can slow his weight gain and growth.
Inhibits breastfeeding. Offering your baby water may reduce the amount of time your baby will want to nurse, which could, in turn, result in lower milk production. This will inhibit your ability to provide your baby with all the nutrients and hydration he needs and can start a frustrating cycle of lower milk supply
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Water intoxication. Water intoxication in infants may be due to a lack of knowledge on the risks of giving babies water. Too much water can affect the electrolyte balance in their bodies, cause seizures, and severely affect your child’s ability to process chemicals and hormones properly. Their kidneys at this age cannot metabolize the Sodium in water and this can cause severe problems. Due to the fact that the gut cannot digest water as yet, it will often cause their tummy to go, hence the old wife’s tale of give water to prevent constipation.
What about dehydration?
Again, even on very hot days, your baby should be getting the proper amount of hydration from your breastmilk or formula if they are being fed on demand. However, if you are worried about dehydration keep a lookout for these symptoms:
less than four wet diapers in 24 hours
dark yellow urine
dry, cracked lips
sunken fontenelle (soft spot)
tearless crying
listlessness
dry skin that doesn’t “bounce back”
extreme fussiness
unusual sleepiness
cold hands and feet
If your baby has vomiting or diarrhea, it can also lead to dehydration. If your baby shows these symptoms, call your paediatrician for tips on keeping your little one hydrated, or for more urgent concerns have them evaluated right away by their healthcare professional. Don’t be afraid to bring your baby to the doctor if you feel uneasy about any of the symptoms he may be showing!
The bottom line: wait a while and take it easy!
Once your baby starts eating solids at around 6months old, give him an open cup or straw cup with a tiny bit of water to practice drinking. Slowly increase his water intake as time goes on, and avoid giving your baby juice (the sugar can lead to diarrhea!). As always, be sure to do your proper research before making any big parenting decision, and consult trusted healthcare providers when you have questions. Try not to give water in a bottle, rather a cup. Once baby is happily drinking water, then you can introduce your Rooibos tea.
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