While water is essential for humans, researchers at John Hopkins Children’s Center in the States have reminded parents that babies below six months old should NEVER be given water to drink.
Research has shown that giving too much water to the babies can put them at risk of a potentially life-threatening condition known as water intoxication.
So, what is water intoxication? Basically, babies’ kidneys are not developed enough and thus giving them too much water would cause their bodies to release sodium along with excess water. And losing sodium can affect brain activity which leads to water intoxication. Early symptoms of water intoxication are irritability, drowsiness and other mental changes. Other symptoms include low body temperature (below 36.1˚C), and puffiness/swelling of the face. The more serious symptom would be seizures.
The researchers have indicated that besides water, babies should not be fed over-diluted formula milk or pediatric drinks containing electrolytes.
Even for older infants, it is not advisable to give too much water at a go. Small amounts of about 3-6ml can be given. However, it is always better to check with your child’s pediatrician before doing so.
Don’t remember if we gave Matthew any water when he was below six months old. But I know he loves drinking water now as well as all the other stuff that he’s a little too young to drink {and no … I’m not talking about alcoholic stuff :)} such as soft drinks.
