Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your pediatrician for medical concerns regarding your child.
Average water consumption
By 6 months, a baby’s water needs increase to about 100-150 ml per kilogram of body weight per day, according to the World Health Organization.
What You Need to Know
- The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months, which provides about 700-900 ml of water per day.
- The Indian Academy of Pediatrics suggests introducing water to babies at 6 months, starting with 10-20 ml per day.
- Babies under 6 months need about 0.1-0.2 ml of water per kilogram of body weight per hour, as per the IAP guidelines.
- The ideal water temperature for babies is between 36-38 degrees Celsius, as recommended by the WHO.
- Babies can get about 50% of their daily water needs from breast milk or formula, as stated by the IAP.
- The average water intake for a 6-12 month old baby is about 200-400 ml per day, as per the WHO.
The Indian Context: What Research Actually Says
Giving babies coconut water
Region: Southern India | Verdict: Not recommended for babies under 6 months
Limited scientific evidence
Offering babies boiled water
Region: Northern India | Verdict: Recommended for babies over 6 months
WHO recommends boiling water for babies
Giving babies dal water
Region: Eastern India | Verdict: Not recommended for babies under 6 months
Limited scientific evidence
Using a water filter for baby water
Region: Urban India | Verdict: Recommended for all babies
WHO recommends using a water filter for baby water
Common Myths — Busted
Truth: Babies under 6 months need about 0.1-0.2 ml of water per kilogram of body weight per hour.
Truth: The WHO recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months, which provides about 700-900 ml of water per day.
Truth: The WHO recommends boiling water for babies or using a water filter to remove impurities.
When to See Your Paediatrician
- Not urinating for more than 6 hours
- Having a fever above 38 degrees Celsius
- Showing signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth, sunken eyes, or low urine output
- Vomiting for more than 2 hours
Parents Also Ask
How much water should I give my 6 month old baby?
About 100-150 ml per kilogram of body weight per day, according to the WHO.
Can I give my baby tap water?
No, the WHO recommends boiling water for babies or using a water filter to remove impurities, about 1-2 minutes of boiling is sufficient.
How often should I give my baby water?
About 6-8 times a day, with an average of 20-30 ml per urination, as per the IAP guidelines.
Key Takeaways
- The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months, which provides about 700-900 ml of water per day.
- The Indian Academy of Pediatrics suggests introducing water to babies at 6 months, starting with 10-20 ml per day.
- Babies under 6 months need about 0.1-0.2 ml of water per kilogram of body weight per hour, as per the IAP guidelines.
- The ideal water temperature for babies is between 36-38 degrees Celsius, as recommended by the WHO.
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