As a new parent, it’s natural to wonder when your baby can start drinking water. During the first few months, milk serves as your baby’s primary source of nutrition and hydration. However, you may be curious about the right time and method to introduce water into their diet. This guide will help you understand when can babies have water and how much is appropriate.
What Age Can Babies Have Water?
Infants under six months should not have water. Breast milk or formula fully meets their nutritional needs during this period. Offering water too early can bloat their small stomachs, leaving less room for essential nutrients and causing complications.
Here’s a breakdown of when to start water for babies:
Babies should not have any water before they are six months old. During this period, breast milk and formula provide all the hydration and nutrients they require. Water intoxication can occur when kids younger than six months old are given the liquid, which can disrupt their capacity to absorb nutrients from milk.
You can introduce small amounts of water once your baby turns six months old and begins eating solid foods. At this point, babies learn how to eat and drink from a cup, and offering them sips of water helps them practice their motor skills.
When your baby turns one, you can increase the amount of water they drink. At this age, they eat more solids and become more active, so staying hydrated is important.
How Much Water Should I Give My Child?
Knowing how much water to offer your baby or toddler is as important as knowing when to introduce it.
- Six to Twelve Months: Small amounts of water are enough for babies between six and twelve months. You can offer around 118–236 ml per day. If your baby refuses water, don’t worry too much — some babies take time to adjust to drinking from a cup.
- One to Three Years: As your child grows, their water intake requirements will increase. The recommended amount for toddlers is about 1–1.5 litres (4–5 cups) of fluids per day, which includes water, milk, and other liquids.
Conclusion
Introducing water to your baby is an important milestone, but timing and moderation are key. Wait until your baby is six months old to start offering small amounts of water, and gradually increase the quantity as they grow and begin eating solid foods.
Additionally, tailored health insurance plans can provide peace of mind during these developmental stages. It ensures access to quality pediatric care and covers unforeseen medical expenses, allowing you to focus on your child’s health and well-being without financial stress.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.