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When is it safe to give water to a newborn? Pediatrician explains
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News18•14-10-2026, 22:40
When is it safe to give water to a newborn? Pediatrician explains
- •Breast milk alone is sufficient for a newborn from birth up to 6 months of age, and no water is needed.
- •Breast milk contains 80 to 90 percent water, which naturally quenches the baby's thirst.
- •Giving water to infants under 6 months old is dangerous and can cause diarrhea, jaundice, or stomach infections.
- •Excess water can lead to water intoxication, causing sodium levels to drop and putting the baby at risk of seizures.
Key Questions Answered
According to pediatrician Dr. Ravi Malik, babies do not need any water from birth up to six months of age. During this period, breast milk alone provides sufficient hydration and nutrients.
Giving water to a baby under six months old can cause water intoxication, which lowers sodium levels and risks severe illness or seizures. Additionally, external water can introduce microorganisms that cause diarrhea, jaundice, or stomach infections due to the baby's weak immune system and immature kidneys.
No, formula milk already contains the correct amount of water needed for the baby. Therefore, there is no need to add any extra water to formula milk during the first six months.
