Water & Juice

Should I give my baby juice?

Babies do not need juice. Babies younger than 6 months should not be given juice. However, if you choose to give your baby juice, do so only after 6 months of age, give only 100% fruit juice, and offer it only in a cup, not in a bottle. To help prevent tooth decay, do not put your child to bed with a bottle. If you do, make sure it contains only water.

Limit juice to no more than 4 ounces a day and offer it only with a meal or snack. Any more than this will reduce her appetite for other, more nutritious foods, including breast milk and/or formula. Too much juice also can cause diaper rash, diarrhea, or excessive weight gain.

Give your child extra water if she seems to be thirsty between feedings. During the hot months when your child is losing fluid through sweat, offer water 2 or more times a day. If you live in an area where the water is fluoridated, drinking water also will help prevent future tooth decay.

Does my baby need water?

Healthy babies do not need extra water. Breast milk and/or formula provides all the fluids they need. However, with the introduction of solid foods, water can be added to your baby's diet. Also, a small amount of water may be needed in very hot weather, but check with your child's doctor about how much is safe. And if you live in an area where the water is fluoridated, drinking water also will help prevent future tooth decay.