If a baby does not like to drink water, it may lead to issues such as overheating and constipation, which are detrimental to their healthy growth. Faced with the challenge of getting a seven-month-old baby to drink water, mothers feel both anxious and helpless, but forcing them directly is not a good solution. Here are some suggestions to help resolve this concern:
First, stay calm. Even if the baby does not actively drink water, they can still obtain moisture through breast milk, rice porridge, soups, and fruits. The key is to maintain a balanced diet and pay attention to the baby’s eating habits.
Secondly, establish healthy eating habits. Cultivate the baby’s enjoyment of light flavors from an early age and reduce exposure to sweet beverages. During special occasions, communicate in advance with other adults to prevent them from casually offering sugary drinks to the baby, which helps the child develop a good habit of not relying on sweet drinks.
Moreover, parents should set an example. Babies are good at mimicking, so parents should reduce their consumption of sweet drinks at home to guide their child through practical actions.
For some health-beneficial beverages, the baby can drink in moderation, but it should be ensured that these additional intakes do not affect the daily hydration requirements, as plain water is still the best source of hydration. Choosing oral liquid products that are easily soluble in water can minimize the impact on the baby’s normal water intake.
Additionally, using creative auxiliary tools can also stimulate the baby’s interest in drinking water, such as using cartoon-patterned cups to attract the baby’s attention and make the drinking process fun.
Lastly, even if the baby resists drinking water, avoid substituting it with carbonated drinks. It is recommended to provide warm boiled water, especially in cold seasons, keeping the water temperature around 37 degrees Celsius, which is close to body temperature, is most suitable. Maintaining good drinking habits can keep the baby’s skin hydrated and more appealing.
