For most healthy adults, there’s nothing more refreshing than a glass of clean, pure water. Health experts often recommend drinking several glasses daily to maintain proper hydration and keep our bodies functioning optimally. However, for infants under one year old—especially those in the first nine months of life—consuming too much water can pose serious risks.
According to pediatricians like Dr. James P. Keating, the retired medical director of the St. Louis Children’s Hospital Diagnostic Center, excessive water intake can dangerously dilute a baby’s sodium levels. This condition, known as water intoxication, can lead to seizures, coma, brain damage, and even death in severe cases.
Breast milk or formula already provides all the fluids a healthy infant needs. If parents believe their baby requires additional hydration, it’s crucial to limit extra water intake to just two to three ounces at a time, and only after the baby has been adequately fed with breast milk or formula.
Dr. Keating also advises parents to steer clear of infant swimming lessons. “Repeatedly submerging infants in water can cause them to swallow large amounts of water, which has been linked to seizures occurring right at the poolside,” he explained.
The brain is particularly vulnerable to the effects of water intoxication. In older children, behavioral changes are often the first sign of trouble. Symptoms may include confusion, drowsiness, lack of focus, blurred vision, muscle cramps, twitching, poor coordination, nausea, vomiting, irregular breathing, and weakness. If you observe any of these signs in your child, contact your pediatrician immediately.
By understanding the risks of water intoxication and taking preventive measures, parents can help ensure their infants stay safe and healthy.
