Water is needed by everyone, and even babies need water to stay hydrated. However, one question arises: At what age can babies start drinking water? Babies can start drinking water when they are 6 months old.
So far, we have known that breast milk is the only source of nutrition that can be given to babies, and formula milk is nutritional support after the exclusive breastfeeding period is over.
Although it sounds unusual, there are several reasons why babies are not allowed to drink water until they are 6 months old. To understand more about this matter, check out the discussion in the following article!
Can Babies Drink Water?
Can babies drink water? The answer is no. The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed that babies should be exclusively breastfed for the first 6 months of life. The exclusive breastfeeding referred to by WHO includes the prohibition of giving water to babies.
If water is given to babies under 6 months of age, it can cause water intoxication. Babies who consume too much water will have low sodium levels. Therefore, breast milk is the ideal food for infant growth and development.
Additionally, the WHO also recommends that complementary feeding begins at 6 months of age. So, you are only allowed to give your baby water when they have entered the age of complementary food at 6 months.
When Can a Baby Drink Water?
After knowing some of the risks behind it, you might be wondering at what age babies can drink water. Here's a guide that you can use as a reference:
1. Age 0 to 3 Months
From birth to 3 months old, babies should not be given water at all. Doctors recommend exclusive breastfeeding during this period to ensure your baby receives all the necessary hydration and nutrients.
2. Age 4 to 6 Months
Because they are still in the period of exclusive breastfeeding recommendations, babies with an age range of 4 to 6 months are also not recommended to drink water. But in certain conditions, some babies have been allowed by doctors to start complementary foods (MPASI) or eat solid foods since the age of 4 months.
3. Age 6 to 8 Months
The age range of 6 to 8 months is the initial period when the baby receives complementary food. At this time, as a parent, you are allowed to start giving water as a complement to solids.
Keep in mind, children's fluid needs will continue to increase with age, muscle mass, and body fat. The fluid needs of babies aged 6 months and over cannot be met if they rely on breast milk only.
However, giving water to babies should only be as much as a quarter to half a glass a day.
It can be given with the help of a spoon after mealtime is over. You can also start teaching your little one to learn to suck through a glass or special drinking bottle.
4. Age 8 to 12 Months
In this age range, there are several dietary changes that babies will experience in line with their age. Babies aged 8 to 12 months already need about 800 ml of fluid a day. For the exact amount, you are advised to do further consultation with the doctor.
The Danger of Giving Plain Water to Babies
As explained above, giving plain water to babies under six months old can be dangerous according to health experts. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding until the age of 6 months without additional fluids. This includes plain water for several reasons:
1. Disrupts Nutritional Balance
Plain water can dilute the concentration of essential nutrients in the growing baby's body, especially sodium. This can lead to hyponatremia (low sodium levels), which can adversely affect the baby's health.
2. Reducing Breast Milk Intake
Giving plain water can make babies feel full, leading them to reduce their consumption of breast milk. This can lower the intake of nutrients and calories that are essential for the baby's growth.
3. Risk of Water Intoxication
Babies have underdeveloped kidneys. Excessive water intake can overload the baby's kidneys, causing water intoxication, which can lead to seizures, or in extreme cases, coma.
4. Increases Risk of Infection
Unsterilized water can carry bacteria or contaminants that increase the risk of infection, especially diarrhea.
Health experts emphasize the importance of following recommendations to feed breast milk or formula until the baby reaches six months of age.
Now, of course, you are no longer confused with the question of “can babies drink water” and “when can a baby drink water?”. From the explanation above, it can be concluded that although water is one of the essential substances for the body, you need to make sure to give it to babies according to their needs and age!
Well, when your little one reaches the age where they are allowed to drink plain water, as a parent, you should certainly provide them with the best. Always choose #AQUADULU, which is the drinking water for healthy people with quality assurance, sterilization, and protection of the various goodness of nature within it. We hope this article has been helpful. See you in the next one!
