If your baby is less than 6 months old, it should drink only breast milk or adapted milk. From the age of 6 months, you can give your baby small amounts of water, if necessary, in addition to breast milk or milk.
Why is water not suitable for babies under 6 months?
Before the baby is 6 months old, breast milk or adapted milk is used for both feeding and hydrating a baby. That's all it needs, even in the heat.
Giving water to a newborn can lead to it drinking less breast milk/adapted milk. This can put it at risk of not getting enough of what it needs to grow properly. Giving too much water or too much diluted adapted milk is also not appropriate.
When can I give water to my baby?
If it is about 6 months old, you can give it small amounts of chilled boiled tap water, in addition to feeding it. Breast milk/milk should be the main source of food and water for children up to 12 months of age.
Start giving your child water regularly after it is 12 months old. If your child has just started eating solid foods, start with a few sips, while eating. Water can also help prevent constipation.
In hot weather, it is important to offer more frequent breastfeeding or milk if the baby is under 6 months old.
How to prepare water for a baby when it is 6 months old?
Boil the water and leave it to cool well.
Check the temperature before giving it to your child.
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