Fatshimetrie: What you need to know about hydrating babies
Baby nutrition is a crucial topic for new parents, and hydration is no exception. It is important to understand why it is crucial to never give water to an infant. Babies need to eat several times a day because their stomachs are small and can only hold one to two spoonfuls, or five to ten milliliters, of fluid at birth.
Water is useless and contains no essential nutrients
It is crucial not to give an infant water because it fills their stomach unnecessarily, making it more difficult to absorb essential nutrients such as fats, calories, minerals and vitamins. Instead, it is recommended to feed them with breast milk or formula, which is rich in nutrients necessary for their growth and development.
Risk of water intoxication
Giving water to a baby can cause water poisoning. An infant’s kidneys are not as mature as those of an adult and cannot tolerate as much water. Even a small amount of water given to an infant younger than six months in a short period of time can lead to hyponatremia, which can cause death or swelling of the brain.
When can babies drink water?
During the first six months, the baby’s stomach gradually develops, reaching a capacity of 2.7 to 5 ounces within a month. They can then hold about seven ounces of water in six months.
Small amounts of water can be introduced around six months of age, but breast milk or formula should remain the baby’s main source of nutrition and hydration. Most babies still prefer their milk and view water as a curiosity, but this will change. Babies can start drinking more water at one year old, accompanied by a healthy diet and cow’s milk.
Fatshimetrie would like to remind parents of the crucial importance of hydrating babies and the need to favor breast milk or formula to ensure their optimal growth and development. It is essential to never underestimate the potentially harmful impact of giving water to an infant, to ensure their long-term health and well-being.