As an adult, your body often needs water more than anything else. Water quenches your thirst and also keeps you hydrated; literally, the more water you take, the more balanced your system will be. Therefore, as a new mother, you’ll be more concerned about making sure your baby is well hydrated. Some say the baby needs to be given water, while others say breastmilk is all a baby needs, which leaves you in limbo.
Well, we at Elimuzazi are here to quench your every parental thirst. Here is what you need to know.
Even in hot weather, babies under 6 months old should not be given water, according to the National Center for Birth and Baby Health. At that age, breastmilk or formula is both water and food for the baby. Giving a baby water means they are under-breastfed or given less formula. A well-fed baby will not need water, as the breastmilk has all the hydration and nutrients they need.
Research has it that even after exclusive breastfeeding, the baby slowly transitions to purees and solids but still uses breastmilk as their hydration option up until 12 months of age. However, by the time the baby is 6 months old, you can offer little amounts of water, which has to be boiled and cooled before being given to the baby. Remember, this should never replace milk; if you have to choose, then milk is a better option.
As the baby transitions into solids, (read about when here https://elimuzazi.com/2022/11/01/when-and-how-to-introduce-weaning/) there will be an increase in poop frequency and amount. At this stage, you can offer sips of water during mealtime to help prevent constipation. Do this from a cup, as it’s also the right time to introduce them to using cups.
Many will ask, “What about in hot weather or maybe when the baby has a fever?” Well, the solution is frequent breastfeeding, not water. Do not offer water unless recommended by a doctor; instead, keep the baby hydrated by breastfeeding frequently.
In response to your question, we at Elimuzazi have this to say: babies under 6 months do not need water; all they need is either breastmilk or formula. You can administer little sips of water after 6 months, but do so only if there is a need for it; if possible, consult your pediatrician. Normally, babies should only interact safely with drinking water after 12 months; before then, it’s a gamble.