Water is an important component of our bodies. Every bodily function depends on water. Drinking water is one of the healthy and basic steps to achieve a better life. Therefore, parents hope that their babies can start learning the healthy habit of drinking water early. But when can babies drink water? Here are some useful tips to know when we can feed babies with water.

When can babies drink water?
Experts believe that giving babies water is not a good idea before six months. Babies usually get enough hydration from breast milk or formula, even in hot weather. This is because too much water can fill the baby’s tummy, which is too weak to withstand too much pressure from the outside, and too much water can reduce the desire to feed and interfere with the absorption of nutrients from milk. Small sips of water may not harm the baby, but it is advisable to consult a doctor before giving water to a baby before six months of age. The following timeline will show you specifically when babies can drink water.

From birth – 3 months
Newborns should not be given water. Having a small belly, a newborn should not be given a bottle of water, which would fill his belly and replace milk. Also, too much water will upset the normal balance of electrolytes in their bodies and can affect brain and heart function.

4 to 6 months
Although giving a little water to an infant of this age is not dangerous, it is not necessary. Research shows that breastfed babies don’t need extra water, even in tropical locations where temperatures can rise above 100°F daily. Formula-fed babies can be given a little water (about an ounce or even two) in hot weather, but it’s best to ask your pediatrician for advice. Water should never replace breast milk and formula should not be diluted with additional water.

about 5-7 months
Babies this age can hold objects and can learn to drink liquids from a cup. Give your baby a sippy cup that doesn’t have a valve so she can suck easily. Choose one that can hold 4 to 6 ounces of liquid and fill it to the top so your baby doesn’t have to tilt her head up when she drinks. A large cup filled with water may be too heavy for a small baby to use.

Sometimes you may be advised to use drinking tap water, but boil it first. If that’s the case, make sure the water is boiling and keep it there for at least a minute. This will destroy any pathogens in the water that could harm your baby. However, don’t boil the water for too long, and don’t boil it more than once, as that can concentrate impurities and make things worse for your baby.
Some companies make water that is designed for use with baby formula. This water follows much stricter guidelines than other water sources and is approved by the Environmental Protection Agency.

water to avoid
There are definitely some sources of water that you should always avoid when preparing your baby’s formula.
1. Well water
2. Water containing high levels of fluoride