When Can Babies Drink Water?

Let's begin with what we know: During the initial six months of your baby's life, breastmilk, formula, or a combination of both are the only necessary liquids required. In most cases, this will also be sufficient nutrition for your baby. 

It is crucial to avoid giving your baby water during this time as it can disrupt the balance of necessary nutrients and components. Additionally, it's essential to exercise caution when mixing formula powder - overdiluting or adding excessive water can be dangerous and even fatal. So, it's best to follow the recommended concentration carefully.

For healthy adults, drinking plain and pure water is the best way to satisfy their thirst. It is recommended that adults consume 8-12 eight-ounce glasses of water each day for their overall well-being.

However, it is essential to note that too much water can be dangerous for children under one, particularly during their first six months of life. Medical organizations such as WHO and UNICEF warn that excessive water intake can dilute a baby's sodium levels, leading to seizures, coma, brain damage, and even death.

Healthy babies don't have to consume additional water besides breast milk or formula. Water should be limited for older babies and given only after breastfeeding or formula.

Always check with your pediatrician to ensure the readiness of water introduction and the amount to be given. Of course, if any problematic symptoms are associated with adding water, get help immediately.

After consulting with your medical provider, your little one may be ready to start drinking water after six months. It is essential to always prioritize safety during this milestone.

Ensuring that the amount of water given is appropriate for their age and stage of development is crucial in maintaining proper nutrition. Striking a delicate balance is vital.

Introducing water to your baby when starting a solid food diet is recommended. However, it is essential to note that baby formula or breast milk should still be the primary source of hydration and nutrition.

Giving water to your baby at this stage can help prevent constipation, but it is essential to be aware that as their gut flora changes and develops while digesting solid food for the first time, it can become a problem. Fortunately, a baby's kidneys are more developed at around six months old, reducing the risk of water intoxication.

Introducing a cup is a wonderful way to have water available from the beginning. Using a natural cup or a sippy cup at the dinner table when your child can sit up will help to develop mouth muscles and improve fine motor skills and coordination.

The amount of water your baby can consume varies based on their age and the development of their bodily systems.

As your little one's kidneys mature, they become better equipped to handle water added daily. However, it is essential not to exceed the recommended daily amount, as this can lead to water intoxication and put your baby's health at risk.

Additionally, it is important to remember that water should never be used as a substitute for your baby's breast milk or infant formula.

The amount of water to establish in your babies’ daily routine depends on their age. At six months, a baby’s appropriate amount of water is 4 to 8 ounces daily.

Significantly, this limit should not be exceeded; otherwise, you put your baby at risk of water intoxication. Water is unsuitable for replacing your baby's breast milk and can’t be considered an alternative to mothers’ milk. 

Breast milk or formula is the primary source of nutrition and hydration for babies before they are six months old. Therefore, selecting high-quality baby formula is of utmost importance.

Many parents choose European organic baby formulas during this critical period. These formulas provide essential nutrition to ensure your baby receives optimal nourishment for healthy growth and development.

If your baby is breast or bottle-appropriately fed and their pediatrician approves of their growth and development, a lack of water won't cause dehydration. However, dehydration is more likely to occur if your little one is experiencing health problems such as a cold, flu, or other illnesses.

If feeding is interrupted or they lose fluids due to vomiting or diarrhea, your baby may become dehydrated. If your baby has a fever or is in a hot environment, it may be advisable to add small amounts of water by spoon under medical supervision.

Whether families mix water into powdered formula or allow little ones to take small sips once they reach six months, the type of water you use can matter. In many areas, you may prefer a bottle of tap.

To ensure safety, it is recommended to use cold tap water instead of hot water from the faucet, as hot water contains more lead. Installing a filtration system in your home can benefit the health of your entire family, including your baby's immune system. Without a filtration system, boiling cold tap water is a viable option to purify water for mixing baby formula.

Distillation is a purification method that boils liquid into vapor and condenses it into purified water. The process removes harmful contaminants as well as natural minerals. Experts recommend Bottled Water when it is labeled as sterile and does not contain elevated levels of sulfate or sodium.

Juice or tea are not listed in the US or EU as recommended drinks for infants and children. Children should not drink fruit or vegetable juice before 12 months of age due to the high sugar levels.

After 12 months, when solid nutrition is better established, families can introduce their little one to 4 ounces or less of 100% fruit juice. All caffeinated drinks should be avoided as young children have no established safe limit.

When introducing water or any nutrition to your baby, their health and safety should be your top priority. The Milky Box only offers breastmilk alternatives from well-known, trusted brands to ensure your baby's well-being.

Our European baby formulas are made with pure and clean ingredients designed to support your infant from their first day to weaning.