Aa
Aa
A
A
A
Close
Avatar universal

Water for Infants

Can anyone suggest to me when the right time would be to introduce a few ounces of water (not tap) to an infant.
My Granddaughter is going to be 10 weeks old in a few days, and just gobbles up her formula. I keep telling my daughter that she is feeding her too much.She is always hungry.
I remember giving all 4 of my children water at a very early age. But now Drs. are recommending nothing but formula or breast milk for the 1st 6 months.
I just figure a couple ounces of water between feedings might help her feel more full. She has gained 6 lbs since birth, and is such a little chub,lol!
I just wanted to see if anyone else has given their infant water, as we all know, we dont always go by the book.
My children started at a young age, even jello water, and they were all fine.
6 Responses
Sort by: Helpful Oldest Newest
Avatar universal
I'm glad to hear that she is taking the increase in formula without any problems.  Maybe that will help reduce middle of the night feedings as well since you'll be getting more formula into her during the day (I think you mentioned that she was still waking up for those feedings on our other conversation).  

Regarding the Jello water...No, I never even thought of doing that.  It sounds like a good idea, but I've never given it any thought or done any research on whether it could have any problems in an infant.  I guess I would just double check with the pediatrician before doing it.  I always just gave diluted juice to my babies (I still give it to both my 2 yr old and 1 yr old).  I just buy the gerber juice products from the baby food aisle at the grocery store and dilute it with water.  They actually have very convenient 4 oz travel size juices that are great to stick in the diaper bag.  It's always worked well for us.  :-)
Helpful - 0
556087 tn?1226595414
6 months my doctor just put my 5 month old boy on stage 2 foods cereal at 4 mos???/
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Thanks again.
I did give my children water at an early age. But now they are saying absolutely nothing but formula or breast milk for the 1st 6 months. I just wanted to be sure other mothers were also.

I also gave them diluted juices .(100% no additives) My kids always seemed to enjoy having something different than the formula. I believe I started around 2 months. Just a little In between their feedings to help tide them over.

My daughter is such a worry wart, but like I told her, she turned out perfectly normal.
Well almost, lol! Gotta love em.

We have started giving my granddaughter the 6oz of formula instead of 4oz, and she has been taking it all. Evidently we have been starving the poor girl! I think we will try a couple of oz of water today. Did you ever give Jello water? Just to make it a little more tasty.
Thanks again, Belle
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
My son was very constipated at 3 months, and my doctor said it was ok to give him 4 oz of diluted apple juice a day (2 oz water / 2 oz juice).  I am pretty sure that I have read in several places that you can give infants up to 4 oz of water or juice a day, but not to give more than that unless it is during the summer months, and then a little more is fine if the baby seems to need it.
Helpful - 0
556087 tn?1226595414
3 months is fine
Helpful - 0
535822 tn?1443976780
Yes I also gave my children cooled,boiled water when they were young and in between the milk feeding, I am uncertain what the protocal is today and it varies from the country you live in.You may want to ask the Doctor of the child, I do not believe it would hurt the child but best be safe and ask.
Helpful - 0
Have an Answer?

You are reading content posted in the Pediatrics Community

Top Children's Health Answerers
Learn About Top Answerers
Didn't find the answer you were looking for?
Ask a question
Popular Resources
Fearing autism, many parents aren't vaccinating their kids. Can doctors reverse this dangerous trend?
Is a gluten-free diet right for you?
We answer your top questions about the flu vaccine.
Learn which over-the-counter medicines are safe for you and your baby
Yummy eats that will keep your child healthy and happy
Healing home remedies for common ailments