Water is an essential element For our lives. It is just as beneficial for babies, children and adults, but sometimes we do not know about the consequences of how we should take it, in any of the different stages of life. Its supply can have serious consequences that many mothers do not understand.
We know that a baby cannot be given water until there is completed 6 months of life. The fact and theory why we have to wait until he turns that age has its reasons studied and supported. In today's article we will explain when you can give them water and what are its consequences.
When can you give a baby water?
It is advisable to introduce the water when they turn 6 months old. This data has an explanation since at that age they have a more solid and complementary diet. They no longer drink as much milk and therefore need extra fluids to hydrate.
Children who do not breastfeed and drink formula milk take much fewer feedings throughout the day and they probably need an extra supply of water. It is necessary to introduce its consumption little by little and not by obligation, since the baby will demand as needed.
Why can't I give a baby water before 6 months?
Babies need to hydrate and consume a contribution equivalent to about 700 ml of water until the sixth month of life. Logically we are not giving them water, but we are supplying it through breast milk or artificial milk.
If we supply water we would be taking away the contribution of nutrients they need for their development. Babies feel full with whatever liquid they drink, if we substitute milk for water they will feel equally satisfied and we will not be providing your dose of nutrients and energy.
Babies need much more hydration than adults
The babies need 10-15% water of their body weight every day. Adults only need about 4%. If we make the comparison we would need to drink water triple the recommended daily amount.
Taking this contribution of water we are already making come through the milk and therefore they do not need to drink it. Therefore up to six months of age they do not need anything other than their milk.
What would happen if we give them water?
Apart from not giving any type of nutrient, if we substitute food for water it can have compromised consequences for their health. It can lead to malnutrition and it has its logic. His stomach is so small that he is quickly satisfied. If we give them water instead of milk, we are not feeding them correctly, so they get to feed incorrectly. This can lead to a incorrect development of its growth.
Other risks that may manifest are possible diarrhea since if mineral and decontaminated water is not supplied it can cause this condition. Some mothers choose to give water without bottled and still their bodies are unprepared to deal with the pollutants that arise.
Another way to get another disorder is when they can have a low level of sodium in your blood, their kidneys are not mature enough to cope with its consumption. It is the well-known Hyponatremia. Your body is not prepared to drink water so nausea, seizures and vomiting can occur, even in some circumstances coma can occur.
You can even show symptoms of overhydration for which they come to suffer drowsiness, swelling in the face and can even lower their body temperature to 36 °.
If you want to know more about how to maintain good hydration between children and babies, read this other article.