Giving water to babies under the age of 6 months should not be done because there are more riskshis rather than the benefits. After all, your baby's nutritional and body fluid needs have actually been fulfilled by breastfeeding or formula milk.
Various health institutions suggest that babies should be given exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life. What is meant by exclusive breastfeeding is that babies are only given breast milk as the only nutritional intake and do not consume other additional food or drinks, including water and juice.
If exclusive breastfeeding is not possible for some reason, then the baby can be given formula milk. However, the content in the formula must be in accordance with the nutritional needs of babies at their age.
To determine the type of formula milk that is suitable for your little one, you can consult further with your pediatrician.
Risks of Giving Water to Babies
If given water, babies under 6 months of age can be at risk for several health problems, including:
1. Bloated stomach
Giving water to a baby can make his stomach feel bloated, because his digestive system has not been able to absorb fluids properly. Not only that, the newborn's stomach capacity is still not optimal, so it can't receive too much fluid intake.
2. Diarrhea
If your baby is using formula milk, use water that has been boiled to a minimum of 80°C, then cool it before giving it to the baby. The use of unclean water can increase the risk of your baby getting diarrhea.
If you use bottled water, be sure to check the mineral content first. Do not choose mineral water that contains too much sodium or sulfate. Check the label on the water bottle and make sure the sodium (Na) level is not more than 200 mg per liter and the sulfate (SO or SO4) level is less than 250 mg per liter.
3. Water poisoning (water intoxication)
Although rare, giving too much water can cause your little one to experience water poisoning. This occurs when the level of salt (sodium) in the blood drops too much, disrupting the electrolyte balance in the body.
Symptoms that appear when the baby has water poisoning are vomiting, diarrhea, and the body looks swollen. This condition needs to be watched out for because it can make the baby have seizures and even coma.
4. Malnutrition
Giving water can make the baby feel full, so that the desire to drink breast milk or formula is reduced.
This can prevent the baby from getting enough nutrition from breast milk or formula for their growth and development. As a result, your little one is at risk for malnutrition and weight loss.
When Can Babies Drink Water?
New babies are allowed to be given water in the following situations and conditions:
- DehydrationIf your little one is dehydrated, for example due to diarrhea, high fever, or vomiting, the doctor will usually suggest giving a special electrolyte drink for the baby. The goal is to replace lost fluids and electrolytes from your little one's body.
- ThirstAfter the age of 6 months, the baby can be given water when he is thirsty. However, it is recommended not to give it more than 8 tablespoons or half a glass of water per day. Continue to prioritize breast milk as the main nutritional intake even if the baby is over six months old.
- Already able to consume MPASIBabies can drink water after they are 6 months old and start eating solid foods (MPASI). However, some doctors may suggest delaying giving your baby water until the age of 1 year.
Not all drinks are suitable for babies and children, especially those under 6 months. In addition to water for babies, several other drinks, such as tea, soft drinks, juices, and coffee, are also not recommended to be given to babies.
If you are still confused about the rules for giving water or if your little one has health problems after being given water, don't hesitate to consult a pediatrician.