Yes, water intoxication (pani se nuksaan) is a real danger for babies under 6 months - giving them water can dilute their blood sodium levels, leading to seizures and brain damage. The good news: it's 100% preventable by following one simple rule - NO WATER before 6 months. Breastmilk or formula (NAN, Lactogen, Similac, Aptamil) provides ALL the hydration your baby needs, even in hot Indian summers.
Watch: Stop Giving Gripe Water to Your Baby 🚫 | Real Truth Every Parent Must Know! #ParentingTips
Water intoxication (also called water poisoning or hyponatremia) occurs when:
| Factor | Why It's Dangerous |
|---|---|
| Small body size | Even small amounts of water are proportionally large |
| Immature kidneys | Cannot process excess water efficiently |
| Developing brain | Very sensitive to sodium imbalances |
| Small stomach | Water fills stomach, reducing milk intake |
The #1 cause: Well-meaning parents or family members giving water to babies who don't need it.
Common scenarios in Indian homes:
| Mistake | Danger |
|---|---|
| Adding extra water to formula | Dilutes nutrition AND sodium |
| Using more water than instructed | Baby gets water intoxication |
| Stretching formula to save money | Seriously harmful |
Critical: Always follow EXACT water-to-powder ratio on formula tin (NAN, Lactogen, Similac, Aptamil).
Even after 6 months, too much water can cause problems:
Babies can swallow water during swimming lessons or water play.
If you see serious symptoms, go to hospital IMMEDIATELY.
Rule: Babies under 6 months need ONLY breastmilk or formula.
Even in summer:
For every formula (NAN, Lactogen, Similac, Aptamil, Enfamil):
Example for NAN Pro 1:
| Age | Safe Water Amount |
|---|---|
| 6-8 months | 60-120ml (2-4 oz) daily with meals |
| 8-12 months | 120-180ml (4-6 oz) daily |
| 12+ months | Increase gradually as needed |
Common scenario: Relatives insisting baby needs water in summer.
How to respond:
Small amount (few sips):
Large amount or showing symptoms:
Mild cases:
Severe cases (hospital treatment):
Go to hospital immediately if baby has:
Expert Insight: As Dr. Sumitra says, 'Fed is best. Formula is a completely valid choice and provides excellent nutrition.'
A: No. Even in extreme heat, breastmilk or formula provides all hydration needed. Offer more frequent breastfeeds or formula feeds instead of water. Dress baby lightly and keep room cool. Water before 6 months can be dangerous regardless of temperature.
A: We now understand baby physiology better. Some babies did develop problems from early water but it wasn't recognized. Modern guidelines protect all babies, especially vulnerable ones. The risk isn't worth taking when breastmilk/formula provides complete nutrition and hydration.
A: A few sips occasionally are unlikely to cause serious harm. Monitor baby for any unusual symptoms (lethargy, swelling, poor feeding). Continue normal breastmilk/formula feeds. If baby seems unwell or you're concerned, consult your pediatrician.
A: No juice (diluted or not) before 12 months. Juice has similar risks as water plus added sugar concerns. Stick to breastmilk or formula until 6 months, then introduce small amounts of plain water with solids.
A: No water before 6 months even for constipation. Instead: ensure correct formula preparation (not too concentrated), try bicycle leg exercises, gentle tummy massage. If constipation persists, consult your pediatrician - they may adjust formula or recommend other solutions.
A: Follow tin instructions exactly. For most formulas: use the scoop provided, level off powder (don't pack), use exact water amount specified. Example: 1 scoop of NAN Pro 1 = 30ml water. If unsure, ask your pediatrician to demonstrate.
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This article was reviewed by a pediatrician. Last updated: January 2025
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