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Why Babies Shouldn’t Drink Water — and When It’s Safe to Start

Learn how even though water is vital for life, it can be dangerous for babies under six months. Here’s what every parent should know.

ByJake Parks
(Image Credit: Krakenimages.com/Shutterstock)

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When it comes to infant nutrition, parents are flooded with information on what's safe and what's not. However, one piece of advice that often catches new caregivers off guard is the strict guideline against giving babies water, especially during the first six months of life. After all, water is essential for survival — so why exactly is it off-limits for infants?

Pediatricians warn against giving water to babies younger than six months. That’s because doing so can be dangerous. Unlike older children and adults, babies' bodies are not yet equipped to handle extra water, and too much can lead to serious health risks.

For adults, drinking water is straightforward and safe. Our mature kidneys can efficiently handle plenty of excess water, helping our bodies maintain a careful balance of fluids and electrolytes. Babies, however, have tiny kidneys that aren't yet fully equipped for the same task.

One of the biggest ...

  • Jake Parks

    Jake Parks is a freelance writer and editor who specializes in covering science news. He has previously written for Astronomy magazine, Discover Magazine, The Ohio State University, the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and more.

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