Hydration is essential to infant health, but ensuring babies receive the right type and amount of fluids requires following safe, age-appropriate guidelines. European standards on baby hydration emphasize the importance of breastmilk, appropriate fluid types for each developmental stage, and the crucial signs of dehydration that parents should monitor.
1. Hydration Needs by Age
- Newborns (0–6 months): For the first six months, breastmilk or formula exclusively provides all necessary hydration. The European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology Hepatology and Nutrition (ESPGHAN) advises against giving water to infants under six months, as their kidneys are not yet developed enough to process extra water, and it can lead to a dangerous condition known as water intoxication.
- Infants (6–12 months): From six months onwards, small amounts of water can be introduced alongside solid foods. During this stage, breastmilk or formula should still be the primary source of hydration, with water given only in limited quantities (around 60–120 ml per day) to accompany meals. Introducing other fluids such as fruit juices is discouraged, as they can lead to tooth decay and unnecessary sugar intake.
- Toddlers (1–3 years): From age one, children can begin drinking more water and cow’s milk. The recommendation is to provide 900–1000 ml of fluids daily, primarily as water, with the remainder from milk and other sources like soups or watery fruits.
2. Preferred Fluids and Those to Avoid
- Breastmilk or Formula: Up to one year, breastmilk or formula remains the cornerstone of hydration.
- Water: Introduced slowly from six months, water is the safest fluid after breastmilk and formula.
- Avoid Fruit Juices and Sugary Drinks: ESPGHAN and WHO discourage sugary drinks and fruit juices for infants and toddlers due to high sugar content and acidity, which contribute to early tooth decay and poor nutritional habits.
3. Signs of Dehydration in Babies
- European guidelines emphasize the importance of monitoring for signs of dehydration, particularly during hot weather or illness. Parents should look for:
- Fewer wet nappies (less than six per day in infants under one)
- Dark yellow urine
- Dry lips or mouth
- No tears when crying
- Lethargy or irritability
- Sunken soft spot (fontanelle) on the head
If these symptoms appear, consult a healthcare professional promptly, as dehydration in infants can escalate quickly.
4. Hydration Tips for Parents
- During hot weather or minor illness, infants might need additional breastmilk or formula for hydration.
- Avoid over-reliance on water; milk remains the main source of hydration until age one.
- Be mindful of European regulations regarding safe tap water usage for babies under six months, as hard water or mineral-rich water can overload young kidneys.
Following these recommendations will help ensure infants and toddlers stay properly hydrated, supporting healthy growth and development.
Sources:
