Do Babies Need to Drink Water?
The subject of babies drinking water, and what type of water, continues to be a confusing subject for parents. Most doctors agree, though, that giving babies water before six months of age is unnecessary. For strictly breastfed babies, there is no need for any water supplementation, and for bottle-fed babies, formula is comprised of over 80% water. If water is given at all, it should be only in 2 to 3 ounces. This is to prevent baby from filling up on water, or taking it in lieu of breast milk or formula, which will deprive baby of nutrients.