Скачать или смотреть Water for babies

Exclusively breastfed babies do not need additional water – breastmilk is 88% water. Even colostrum in first few days after birth is all that is needed to keep baby well hydrated (assuming baby is nursing effectively). Too much water, especially in the first nine months, can be dangerous as it dilutes baby’s normal sodium levels and can lead to seizures, brain damage or death. Dissolved substances (sodium, potassium, nitrogen, and chloride) are referred to as solutes. One of the major functions of water in children and adults is to flush out, through the urine, excess solutes. The kidneys—though immature up to the age of approx three months—are able to concentrate excess solutes in the urine to maintain a healthy, balanced body chemistry. Because breastmilk is low in solutes, babies don’t need as much water as an older child or adult.

Under 6 months, water can be dangerous. Water does the following:
In the first days after birth may increase bilirubin levels (jaundice) and cause excess weight loss
Fills baby up without adding calories, resulting in weight loss
Makes baby less interested in nursing, which may delay milk coming in or prevent establishing an optimum milk supply
Increases the risk of diarrhea and malnutrition
Too much water can lead to a serious condition called oral water intoxication.
Older babies
Too much fills baby up, sabotaging milk supply from not nursing enough
Breast milk has the nutrition and calories babies need to grow – water does not.
Breastmilk has all the water your baby needs, even in very hot weather.
At 6 months, baby can learn to use a cup while starting solid foods. Giving a few sips of water a couple of times a day (no more than 2-3 ounces per 24 hours) is fine and can prevent constipation
Breastmilk supplies plenty of fluids and older babies (9+ months) who breastfeed without restriction can get the fluids they need through breastfeeding. Some may need a little water with solids to prevent constipation (2-4oz/day).
If you want to give baby (6-12 months) water, offer small amounts in a cup (not bottle) after baby has satisfied hunger with breastfeeding.

Consult your pediatrician with questions