No solid food or water for babies below six months old

A MAJORITY of babies are introduced to foods too early – before the age of six months, as recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO) – according to a recent US study, published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

This new study highlights the importance of introducing babies to solid foods at the right time to ensure they benefit as much as possible from the nutrients found in breast milk or infant formula.

After following 1,482 US infants age six to 36 months, researchers found that more than half of the babies (54.6%) were given food or drinks other than breast milk or infant formula (such as cow’s milk, juice, sugar water, baby food) too early.

In the AFP-Relaxnews report, the study found that babies who were never breastfed or who were breastfed for less than four months were the most likely to be introduced to complementary foods too early.

Only a third (32.5%) of babies were introduced to solid food at around six months, in line with recommendations.

Complementary foods were given to 16.3% of babies before four months, 38.3% of babies at four months, and 12.9% of infants at seven months or older.

Introducing complementary foods too soon isn’t recommended, but starting them too late can also have consequences, such as micronutrient deficiency, allergies and poorer diets later in life, the researchers warn.

In another report published in The Independent newspaper, paediatricians have warned parents about the dangers of feeding water to babies who are under the age of six months, as this can prove extremely detrimental to their health.

Babies do not need water in the same way that children and adults do, even on a hot day.

According to a study published by the NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, breast milk is incredibly rich in water with a low concentration of electrolytes, and it can sufficiently hydrate your baby for the first six months of its life.

However, some parents may be unaware of the dangers of supplying their young tots with water.

Danielle Stringer, a paediatrician also known as the KidNurse, wrote in her blog that if a baby is given too much water, this can result in water intoxication and consequently lead to death.

“Water intoxication is the process that occurs when a baby is given too much water and the water then causes sodium (salt) dilation in the body,” Stringer writes.

“Their bodies will try to overcompensate by having the cells take on more water, which will result in swelling all over the body, including in the brain, which can result in seizures, coma or brain death.”

Stringer advised that babies who are six months old should only consume two ounces of water in 24 hours until their first birthday.

However, in any case, parents are advised to always seek professional advice from their doctor in such matters.