Are you a little unsure about when to give your baby water, what to give it to them in, and how much they should be having? Don’t worry, it's pretty easy to fit into your routine. Here's everything you need to know about hydrating your baby.
At What Age Can Babies Start Drinking Water?
Babies can start sipping on water from the age of 6 months. However, it’s important to ensure that the water is pre-boiled and then cooled before giving it to your baby. This step is crucial to eliminate any potential contaminants and to make it safe for your baby to drink.
When Should You Offer Water to Your Baby?
Water can be offered to your baby alongside solid foods and after breastfeeds or formula feeds. Up until 12 months of age, breastmilk or formula should remain the primary source of hydration for your baby. Babies get enough water from their milk, but once they begin eating solid foods, it’s okay to offer water as well, especially in hot weather.
How to Serve Water to Your Baby?
Using a Cup:
From 6 months old, babies can start learning to use a small plastic or silicone cup. It will take some time for them to master this skill, so starting early allows them lots of opportunity to practice.
Using a Water Bottle:
You can also offer water in a small sippy bottle. This helps your baby learn to drink from water bottles and use straws, which are also less messy if you’re out and about.
Does Water Help with Baby Constipation?
If you suspect your baby is constipated, increasing their water intake can assist in easing bowel movements. Here are some additional tips to help relieve constipation in babies:
- Prune Juice or Prune Puree: These can soften your baby’s stool.
- Fiber-Rich Foods: Vegetables, fruits, and whole grains like oats can help move things along.
- Chia Seeds: Mix 1 tablespoon of chia seeds with ½ cup of water or coconut water. Once the seeds have swollen, give this mixture to your baby to help hydrate and bulk up their stool.
- Offer More Water with Meals: Keeping your baby hydrated during meals can prevent constipation.
- Warm Baths: These can relax your baby’s muscles, encouraging bowel movements.
- Gentle Belly Massage: Massaging your baby’s belly in a clockwise direction can help relax their tummy and promote movement.
When to Seek Help for Baby Constipation
- If none of the above tips work
- If your baby seems in pain
- If you see blood in their stool
- If you are worried about your baby’s condition
Maintaining Hydration Without Overdoing It
While it’s okay to offer water to your baby from 6 months old, especially when they start eating solid foods, make sure that water consumption does not overtake their breastmilk or formula intake in those first 12 months. Breastmilk or formula should remain the main source of nutrition and hydration during this period.
What Happens When Your Baby Turns 12 Months Old?
Once your baby reaches 12 months, water becomes the best drink for them. It's vital for keeping their body healthy and functioning properly. Water helps transport nutrients around their body, maintain blood volume, regulate their temperature, and remove waste products from their body. Tap water is generally safe and usually contains fluoride, which helps protect their teeth.
How Much Water Should Your Child Drink?
The amount of water a child needs can vary based on several factors, including the weather, their level of activity, the foods they consume, and their age and weight. During warmer weather, higher activity levels, or periods of illness, your child will need more water. Generally, if water is readily available to them whenever they want it, they will drink enough to stay healthy.
Ensuring your baby stays hydrated is a vital part of their overall health and development. By knowing when and how to introduce water, you can help your little one transition smoothly from milk to water and establish healthy hydration habits from an early age. If you are ever worried about the hydration status of your baby, reach out to your GP right away.
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Please note, our advice is general in nature and should not replace any advice provided to you by your health professional. Ensure your bub is over 4 months old and is showing signs of readiness before starting solids. If you have any concerns about your bubs development or starting solids consult your GP or other health professional.
