How Much Water Should an 11-Month-Old Baby Drink?

The recommended water intake for a 10-month-old baby is typically around 4 to 8 ounces (120 to 240 milliliters) per

Hello, doctor.
My baby is almost 11 months old and is exclusively breastfed, consuming about 600 cc of breast milk daily.
We introduce solid foods twice a day and provide about 120 cc of water daily.
However, for the past week or so, my baby has been having hard stools.
Could this be due to insufficient water intake? The solid foods mainly consist of chicken puree, sweet potato, pumpkin puree, wood ear mushrooms, apricot mushrooms, tomatoes, red bell peppers, and broccoli.
Could these foods cause constipation? How much water should I give my baby to ensure it's neither too much nor too little? Thank you.

Qing, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/03/23

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics

An 11-month-old baby's kidneys are more mature, and if they drink more water, it will only result in increased urine output; conversely, less water intake will lead to decreased urine output.
There is no need for special calculations; the simplest way to assess hydration is by observing the baby's urine output.
Generally, about six wet diapers a day is considered adequate, as long as the urine is not too dark or concentrated.
If the baby does not urinate much throughout the day or is very active, sweating a lot, it is important to ensure they are adequately hydrated.
Additionally, an 11-month-old may have weaker bowel movements and can sometimes experience constipation.
Increasing the intake of fiber-rich foods like pureed fruits and vegetables, along with adequate hydration, can help.
Supplementing with probiotics may also be beneficial.

Reply Date: 2015/03/23

More Info

When it comes to the hydration needs of an 11-month-old baby, it’s important to understand that their primary source of hydration should still be breast milk or formula. At this age, babies are typically transitioning to solid foods, but breast milk or formula remains crucial for their nutritional needs.
For an 11-month-old, the general recommendation is to provide about 120-240 cc (4-8 ounces) of water per day, in addition to their breast milk or formula intake. Since your baby is consuming approximately 600 cc of breast milk daily, this is a good foundation for hydration. The amount of water you are currently providing (120 cc) seems to be within the acceptable range, but it’s essential to monitor your baby’s overall hydration status through their urine output and general well-being.

The fact that your baby has been experiencing hard stools (referred to as "sheep-like" stools) could indicate constipation, which can be influenced by several factors, including diet and hydration. The solid foods you mentioned—such as chicken puree, pumpkin puree, and various vegetables—are generally healthy, but if they are low in fiber, they might contribute to constipation. It’s beneficial to include high-fiber foods in your baby’s diet, such as pureed fruits (like pears, prunes, or apples) and vegetables that are known to help with digestion.

In terms of water intake, while it’s important not to overhydrate, especially in infants whose kidneys are still maturing, it’s equally important to ensure they are getting enough fluids to prevent dehydration and constipation. Signs of adequate hydration in infants include having 6-8 wet diapers a day and urine that is light yellow in color. If your baby is producing fewer wet diapers or if the urine is dark, it may be a sign that they need more fluids.

To encourage your baby to drink more water, you can try offering it in a fun and engaging way. Use colorful cups or straws, and make it a part of their routine. Sometimes, babies may prefer water that is slightly chilled or at room temperature. You can also incorporate water-rich foods into their diet, such as watermelon or cucumber, which can help with hydration.

Regarding your question about the amount of egg your baby is consuming, one boiled egg per day is generally considered safe and can be a good source of protein and nutrients. However, it’s essential to ensure that your baby’s overall diet is balanced and varied. If you have concerns about allergies or specific dietary needs, consulting with a pediatrician or a nutritionist can provide personalized guidance.

In summary, for your 11-month-old, aim for around 120-240 cc of water daily, monitor their hydration through urine output, and consider incorporating more fiber-rich foods to help with constipation. Encouraging water intake can be done through engaging methods, and one boiled egg a day is typically acceptable. Always consult with your pediatrician for tailored advice based on your baby’s specific health needs.

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