Parent Tip of the Week: Babies and Water

Parent Tip of the Week: Babies and Water

During the first year of life, babies generally don’t need water.

“They don’t need any additional fluids beyond formula or breast milk,” says Michael Farrell, M.D. In fact, giving infants water can be dangerous because they can easily suffer from water intoxication, a condition in which their developing kidneys can’t excrete water fast enough. As a result, water builds up in the body and dilutes the electrolyte balance of the blood, causing seizures, coma, even death.

To cause water intoxication, it takes no more than three 8-ounce bottles of water given over 12 hours.

Here are some ways to avoid water intoxication for your baby:

Give your baby a little extra breast milk or formula instead of water if you sense he’s thirsty on especially hot days.

Diluted formula is another cause of water intoxication. Check the label for proper mixing instructions. And be sure to instruct caregivers to do the same.

Do not give your baby water if he or she is vomiting or has diarrhea. Under those circumstances, Consult your pediatrician, if an oral electrolyte maintenance solution such as Pedialyte is necessary.

Also, Intoxication can also happen if your baby swallows too much water during an infant swimming class. According to the Academy of Pediatrics, they recommend “closely supervise children in and around water. With infants, toddlers and weak swimmers, an adult should be within an arm’s length. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) does not recommend formal swim programs for children under the age of 1. At this age, parent/infant swim classes are a form of enjoyment and bonding as oppose to a water safety program.” Click here for a video on what to look for in a swim program, according to the AAP.

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