Written By: Debjani Arora | Updated : September 26, 2014 10:43 AM IST
We all know the importance of water and its various benefits. But for newborns and babies water isn't as good as we think it is. In fact, as a good practice mothers should refrain from giving babies below six months of age water. Breast milk or formula can take care of all their needs well, literally! Breast milk has the right amount of water, fats, proteins and other nutrients in it and formula is made in a way that it suits the baby's requirement. Also water acts like a zero calorie drink that interferes with baby's ability to take in more breastmilk or formula which are more calorie dense.
Worried about dehydration? Well breast milk or formula feeding on demand or if done adequately can take care of the same. Excess intake of water can lead to dilution of electrolytes and other vital fluids leading to water intoxication. For the same reason, never dilute the formula beyond the recommended level mentioned in the labels.
Give your baby water only once you start weaning and that should ideally be after six months of age. Also read on nine things you should know before giving your baby water.
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