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Should you give water to babies, what studies suggest

Should you give water to babies, what studies suggest

Babies do not need water in the same way as adults, even on a hot summer day.

According to a study published by the NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, breast milk is extremely rich in water with a low electrolyte concentration.

This means that breast milk can hydrate your baby enough for the first six months of life.

However, some parents may not be aware of the potential effects of water on their babies.

Danielle Stringer, a pediatrician otherwise known as KidNurse, described the reasons why parents should avoid quenching their babies' thirst for water when they are very young.

"Babies do NOT need water in the same way as adults. "In fact, babies should not be given water until they are six months old."

"Here is a fact that many parents do not know: breast milk is made up of 88 percent water. Breast milk or formula has all the fluid your baby needs," she adds.

If a baby is given too much water, it can result in water intoxication, according to Stringer.

"Water intoxication is the process that occurs when a baby is given too much water and the water then causes sodium (salt) to expand in the body," says Stringer.

The NHS says: "Full-breastfed babies do not need water until they start eating solid foods. Formula-fed babies may need extra water in hot weather.

"For babies under six months, you should not use water directly from the mains tap in the kitchen as it is not sterile. You will first need to boil the tap water and then let it cool. "Water for babies over six months does not need to be boiled."

Always use boiled water at a temperature of at least 70 degrees when preparing a meal. Remember to let the food cool before giving it to your baby.

*Independent