One hot summer afternoon, when my first baby had just hit the five-month mark, I was out with my mom. The sun was blazing, and despite knowing my son was exclusively breastfed, she thought he might be thirsty in the heat. She reached for her water bottle to offer him a few sips. Instinctively, I shouted “NO!” and quickly took the bottle from her. I recalled hearing that breastfed babies don’t require additional water, and I was confident my milk provided all the hydration he needed. My full breasts and his wet diapers, even in the summer sun, confirmed that. But was there more to my gut feeling?
After returning home, I did some research (as any concerned parent would), and found that my instincts were spot on. Babies who have yet to start solid foods should not be given water, whether they are breastfed or formula-fed. The milk they consume contains all the necessary nutrients and hydration for the first six months of life.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, “Healthy babies do not need extra water. Breast milk, formula, or both provide all the fluids they need.” This guideline is particularly critical for very young infants, whose systems are designed to process only milk. Introducing water or other supplements can disrupt milk production, as breastfeeding operates on a supply-and-demand basis. If infants receive fluids from other sources, they may not nurse as frequently, leading to a drop in milk supply.
The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine highlights that “Supplementation in the first few days interferes with the normal frequency of breastfeedings. If the supplement is water or glucose water, the infant is at increased risk for increased bilirubin, excess weight loss, longer hospital stay, and potential water intoxication.” Yikes!
Extra caution is needed for any baby under 4 to 6 months who has not begun solids. While some pediatricians suggest offering water to formula-fed babies in hot weather, moderation is key. Excessive water intake can lead to a condition known as “water intoxication,” which, while rare, can have serious consequences.
Dr. Mark Thompson, a pediatrician and former medical director of the St. Louis Children’s Hospital Diagnostic Center, warns that for babies under one year—especially those under nine months—too much water can disturb sodium levels in their bodies, potentially resulting in comas, seizures, brain damage, or even death. Scary stuff.
Dr. Thompson advises that if you feel the need to give your baby additional water, it should be limited to two to three ounces at a time and only after breastfeeding or formula feeding. Surprisingly, he also suggests that infants should not participate in swimming lessons, as repeated submersion may lead them to swallow too much water, which can cause seizures.
We don’t need to panic and keep our little ones away from every drop of water, but it’s crucial to be aware of the risks. Once babies start eating solids, it’s recommended to introduce water (not juice!) during meals. Gradually offering water can aid in digestion, but it should be done cautiously, ensuring that it does not replace breast milk or formula, which remain essential sources of nutrition.
So, the next time a well-meaning grandparent suggests giving your baby water, you can confidently say “No, thanks!” During those crucial first six months, all your baby needs is breast milk or formula—even in the heat.
For more information on this topic, you can visit Modern Family Blog, an excellent resource on infant care. If you’re interested in enhancing fertility, check out our article on fertility boosters for men. Additionally, for comprehensive insights into pregnancy, this resource is invaluable.
Summary
It’s essential for babies under six months to avoid water, as breast milk or formula provides all necessary hydration. Introducing water too early can disrupt milk supply and lead to health risks like water intoxication. Once solids are introduced, water can gradually be offered during meals.