Feeding a newborn can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to choosing what liquids to give.

What are the recommended liquids for babies? In this article, we will discuss the various liquids that are appropriate for babies and the reasons behind each recommendation.

Breast Milk

Breast milk is nature’s perfect food for infants. It provides all the necessary nutrients, antibodies, and growth factors that a baby needs for the first six months of life.

Breast milk also helps to protect the baby from illnesses, infections, and allergies, making it the best choice for infants.

Formula

Formula is an alternative to breast milk for infants who are unable to breastfeed or whose mothers choose not to. Formula is designed to provide all the necessary nutrients that a baby needs for healthy growth and development.

There are different types of formula available, depending on the baby’s age, nutritional needs, and any special health requirements.

Water

Water is not a recommended liquid for newborns. Infants under six months of age should not be given water, as their kidneys are not fully developed to handle excess fluids.

Water can also interfere with the intake of breast milk or formula, which should be the main source of nutrition for babies during the first six months.

Fruit Juice

Fruit juice should not be given to infants under six months of age. After six months, small amounts of pure, unsweetened juice can be given to babies, but only in a cup and diluted with water.

Juice can be a source of vitamin C and other nutrients, but it should not replace breast milk or formula.

Cow’s Milk

Cow’s milk should not be given to infants under 12 months of age. Cow’s milk is not nutritionally complete and can be difficult for infants to digest, leading to gastrointestinal problems and allergies.

If cow’s milk is necessary, it can be used in cooking or mixed with formula after the baby is one year old.

Soy Milk

Soy milk is not recommended for infants under six months of age. Soy milk can interfere with the absorption of important minerals, such as calcium and iron, and can cause allergies in some babies.

After six months, soy milk can be used as an alternative to cow’s milk for babies who are lactose intolerant or have a cow’s milk protein allergy.

Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is not recommended for infants. Coconut milk is not a suitable source of nutrition for babies and can cause digestive problems and allergies. Coconut milk should only be used in cooking or baking and not as a beverage for infants.

Almond Milk

Almond milk is not recommended for infants under six months of age. Almond milk is not a suitable source of nutrition for babies and can cause allergies and digestive problems.

After six months, almond milk can be used as an alternative to cow’s milk for babies who are lactose intolerant or have a cow’s milk protein allergy.

Rice Milk

Rice milk is not recommended for infants. Rice milk is not a suitable source of nutrition for babies and can contain high levels of arsenic, which is harmful to babies. Rice milk should only be used in cooking or baking and not as a beverage for infants.

Conclusion

What are the recommended liquids for babies? Breast milk and formula are the best choice for infants during the first six months of life.

After six months, small amounts of pure, unsweetened fruit juice can be given, but only in a cup and diluted with water. Cow’s milk, soy milk, coconut milk, almond milk, and rice milk are not recommended for infants under one year of age. Always consult with a pediatrician before introducing new liquids to a baby’s diet.