It is inherent in nature that mother's milk is a substance replacing both water and food for the baby. Many mothers, having read not the most professional advice in various forums, are beginning to doubt whether to give water to infants, or not.
Mother's milk - food and water
The newborn should receive breast milk almost from the moment of birth - this is exactly what nature requires. Also, the composition of breast milk is constantly changing with age and situation.
For example, if a child is required to drink, he seeks more often to apply to the breast and more often to replace it. There is no special need for water for a baby, as a result, he receives a sufficient amount of front milk, consisting of 88% of water. But unlike water, the electrolytes necessary for the body are not washed away by milk.
Sometimes young mothers can not figure out for themselves whether it is possible and when to start giving water to infants? According to WHO recommendations, children should not be given milk for up to 6 months if they are breastfeeding . Some old-school doctors convince parents to give some water to prevent dehydration. In this case, you should consult another doctor.
Symptoms of dehydration :
- lethargy;
- during crying tears are released less, eyes sink;
- the baby's skin becomes less elastic;
- mouth and tongue are dry.
If such symptoms are not observed, then your baby is all right.
When is it worth starting to give water to a baby?
Pediatricians of all countries agree that it depends on the characteristics of the baby, the speed of development, weight and so on. On average, at 6 months, babies can be started to give juices and water as an addition to milk. But do not forget that the main food is still milk.
If we talk about quality and about what water to give babies, it should be only the specialized water of well-known companies. Water from the tap is not suitable for giving it to the crumb.