We all know how important it is to stay hydrated. If you’ve just become a parent, and you’re wondering when to start offering your baby their first sips of water, we’ve got you.
This guide will run through when babies can drink water, how much water they should drink as they grow, and consider the types of training cups available.
Can newborns drink water?
No.
For the first 6 months they’ll get all the hydration they need from breast milk or formula, even in hot weather. There's no need for your baby to drink anything except breast milk or formula.
A baby's tummy is small, their brain is still developing, and their kidneys are immature, drinking water before their system is ready can lead to water intoxication. This is a serious health condition that occurs when the kidneys are given more water than they can handle.
If you're worried about water intoxication or concerned that your baby is dehydrated, you should seek medical attention right away.
When can babies have water?
You can start offering them small amounts of filtered or tap water at mealtimes, once they’ve started weaning (usually at the 6-month mark). They won’t need a lot, but those first sips alongside their meal will get them used to the taste (plus it’ll help them get used to drinking from a cup!).
As you start introducing solid foods, you’ll find that their appetite for breast milk or formula starts to reduce. This is the point where you should consider introducing a little more water to keep them hydrated, especially as their activity levels increase.
Ideally, water should be the only alternative drink to breast milk or formula your baby has when weaning. Its natural pH is good for a baby's oral and dental health, and it's the most natural form of hydration.
If you choose to offer them fruit juice, make sure it's diluted one part juice to 10 parts water, and remember to avoid hot drinks like tea, and other fizzy or sweet drinks that contain artificial sweeteners and lots of sugar.
When can babies drink cow's milk?
Once they turn 12 months old, even if you’re still breastfeeding, you can start to introduce your baby to full fat or whole cow's milk, or even pasteurised goat's and sheep's milk if you're feeling adventurous!
Semi-skimmed milk (1-2% fat) can be introduced from two years of age, but skimmed milk (less than 0.5% fat) isn't recommended until children are five years old.
Unsweetened oat, almond and soy alternatives are also an option as part of a healthy, balanced diet, but they're not ideal as a main drink. unless under certain circumstances or when a healthcare professional has recommended them. It's also important to look at their labels and nutrition facts panels to see if they've been fortified with nutrients like vitamin D, calcium, and protein, which are so important for a baby's development.
It's important to note that babies and young children under five years old shouldn't be given rice drinks because they contain high levels of arsenic. Don't worry if your child has already had rice drinks, there's no immediate risk to them, but it's best to switch to a different kind of milk.
How much water should my baby drink?
Remember, water can come from foods as well as drinks!
Drinks account for about 80% of fluid intake, while food makes up for another 20%. Fruits, vegetables, and milk are all good sources of water, so a diet rich in these foods can contribute a higher fluid intake overall.
The best cups for babies
There isn’t a strict rule to follow when it comes to cups (and your baby will soon let you know what they do and don’t like). If you’re not sure which type of cup to try first, there are some general principles that can help.
For milk, a baby bottle with a breast-like nipple is best. This helps your baby form a natural latch and makes the transition from breast to bottle smoother if you're breastfeeding.
Once they’re old enough to start introducing water (around 6 months old), you can consider a cup with a free-flow spout, a cup with handles or a soft spout or straw.
We’d recommend a cup that’s designed with a leak-proof valve, to avoid cleaning up messy spills.
Once they're around a year old, they're usually ready to move on from baby bottles altogether. Before long, they'll drink confidently from an open cup!
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