You can encourage your 7-month-old to drink water by allowing him to drink small amounts at every meal. This will help him get used to drinking water and develop cup-drinking habits. Water is best given in a small amount, about one to two ounces at a time, since it will not replace breast milk or formula. You can also give your child rehydration solutions, which are made for babies.
Water intoxication in babies can result in low body temperature, puffiness of the face, irritability, fussiness, and even drowsiness. Severe cases can lead to coma or even death. This condition is a result of consuming too much water in a short period of time, which is why parents must always be cautious and limit the amount of water babies drink.
Many new parents wonder when they should introduce water to their baby’s diet. The truth is that infants need much different amounts of water than adults do, and the amount a baby requires will depend on their age. While many new parents assume they can introduce water when their baby is 7 months old, they are wrong. Water is essential for the development of a baby and should be introduced gradually.
If you’re not sure how safe tap water is for your baby, you can check the Consumer Confidence Report or ask your pediatrician about the safety of your water. You can also opt for bottled water, which is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. As long as the water source is clean and does not contain any harmful chemicals, it’s safe to drink for your child.
As an alternative to water, you can also offer your baby breast milk or formula. This will provide extra calories. Water is an excellent source of hydration, but too much can lead to dehydration and may even lead to seizures. Therefore, it is best to avoid giving your 7-month-old water until he is 6 months old.
Your baby’s first 5 years of life will determine his food and drink preferences for the rest of his life. It’s tempting to offer your child a variety of beverages, but water and plain milk are the best choice for both hydration and nutritional benefits. They also provide calcium, vitamin D, protein, and zinc, which are essential for healthy growth and development.
You can provide water to your baby through a sippy cup a few times a day. This should not be too frequent, though. It’s best to give water in small doses to prevent dehydration. During this stage, the kidneys still have not matured enough to metabolize water.
A 7-month-old can safely drink water, but you should always consult your pediatrician first. A newborn’s stomach is so small that water can interfere with the nutrition he is receiving from breast milk and formula. Water may also result in your baby losing weight.
