Many mothers have doubts about whether they can give water to their newborns. The first clarification is that the needs of a baby are quite different from those of an adult. A child fed exclusively with breast milk does not need water because breast milk already contains water and can fully meet the baby’s hydration needs. Most pediatricians recommend that until six months of age, water or any other liquids should not be offered to the baby. Breast milk contains a balanced level of minerals, making it a natural source of hydration for the baby1. On hotter days, the baby will want to breastfeed more frequently and therefore, it is essential that the mother drinks plenty of water throughout the day and maintains a healthy diet to provide high-quality nourishment for the child.

Learn When a Newborn Can Drink Water

Water for a newborn is only recommended when the child’s feeding is not exclusively through breastfeeding. If the baby is fed with formula, the mother is advised to give small amounts of water throughout the day, because most formulas contain sodium2, which can contribute to dehydration. But even in cases where the child uses formula, it is important to consult a pediatrician for proper guidance on daily quantities and to determine if it is really necessary. It is worth noting that when there is a recommendation that you can give water to the newborn, it is important that it is filtered, preferably boiled and cooled. The amount indicated by the doctor must be followed and is established according to the baby’s weight, usually water is recommended to be offered after a meal, in small sips. In between meals, it is not recommended, as it can make the baby feel full and interfere with feeding time.

When Does the Baby Need Water in Their Routine?

After 6 months of age, parents can start including water in the baby’s routine, but without overdoing it. Small sips are usually advised after meals, following the same recommendation for newborns who take water. The amount should be determined together with the pediatrician and respected. After water is introduced, parents can tell if their child is properly hydrated by looking at the urine: if it is clear and the child urinates at least six times a day, it is a sign of good hydration. The guidance for the intake of teas is the same as for water, in small quantities and following medical advice.

IMPORTANT: After pediatric guidance to introduce water, it is essential for parents to follow the recommended amounts and never offer other liquids such as juices or soft drinks, as they can be harmful to the child’s health.

The Needs of Children Over 1 Year Old

Upon reaching one year of age, the child is allowed to drink water without many restrictions. On hotter days, it is important for parents to offer more water throughout the day, in the amount the child wants to drink. Some care should be taken, such as not allowing the child to drink too much water right before meals, as this may cause fullness and affect their appetite.

Hot Days

On very hot and dry days, the incidence of dehydration among children is higher3. Therefore, it is essential for parents to always pay attention to the baby’s hydration and, in cases of fever, the amount of water should be increased to help restore the child’s ideal body temperature as soon as possible. This will also help in eliminating any invading agents. It is essential not to give water to the baby right before bedtime, as it can cause discomfort and impair digestion in situations when the child has just eaten. As with adults, drinking excess water immediately after meals can prevent proper digestion. Also see: First Bath at the Maternity Ward and at Home – Precautions to Take