Many new mothers, after mastering the basic methods of mixed feeding, are eager to delve into relevant knowledge. One question they are very concerned about is: Do mixed-fed babies need extra water? Paying attention to every detail of mixed feeding helps babies absorb nutrients better and grow up healthy.
For babies with sufficient breast milk, usually no additional water is needed within 1 to 2 months, even in hot weather, because breast milk, especially foremilk, already contains a lot of water. However, for mixed-fed babies who have formula added, with a fixed water proportion, it is recommended to give a small amount of water between feedings, about 10 milliliters. If the baby is unwilling to drink, even if they just try a sip, do not force, to avoid creating a negative experience and causing the baby to resist drinking water in the future.
Whether it is mixed feeding or exclusive breastfeeding, it is necessary to provide adequate water supplementation daily for the baby. Water can be provided between meals, especially for babies drinking formula, it is important to drink more water to prevent issues like internal heat and constipation. Sufficient water intake is particularly important in cold seasons or hot weather to meet the body’s needs.
Developing a habit of drinking water is crucial for babies in the long run. As babies grow older, they are exposed to a variety of foods, they may prefer flavored drinks and reject plain water. However, as the baby’s kidney function is not fully developed, the metabolic process requires more water to dilute waste. Therefore, cultivating good drinking water habits from a young age is highly beneficial for the baby’s long-term health.
