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Healthy Drink Options for Infants
A structured overview of what credible sources and parent perspectives commonly say about this topic.
Quick answer
Healthy drink options for infants primarily include breast milk and infant formula. After six months, small amounts of water may be introduced, but sugary drinks and fruit juices should be limited or avoided.
At a glance
Things to try now
What to do now
- 1Continue exclusive breastfeeding or formula feeding for infants under 6 months.
- 2If your infant is over 6 months, offer small amounts of water in a cup during meals.
- 3Avoid giving any fruit juice or sugary drinks to your infant.
What to say
- “Right now, breast milk or formula is the best drink to help you grow strong and healthy.”
- “Let's try a little water in your cup to help you stay hydrated as you start eating new foods.”
- “Sweet drinks like juice can hurt your teeth, so we stick to milk and water for now.”
What to practice consistently
- Offer breast milk or formula on demand, responding to your infant's hunger and thirst cues.
- Introduce water gradually after 6 months, especially during warm weather or with solid foods.
- Avoid introducing sugary drinks or fruit juice to develop healthy taste preferences.
What to avoid
- Giving fruit juice or sugary drinks before 12 months of age.
- Introducing cow's milk before 12 months.
- Using sugary drinks as a soothing or reward method.
These are common approaches mentioned in sources and by parents. They are informational, not prescriptive.
What this usually involves
- Breast milk: Recommended as the sole source of nutrition for about the first 6 months, providing ideal nutrients and immune support.
- Infant formula: Commercially prepared to mimic breast milk's nutritional profile, used when breastfeeding is not possible or supplemented.
- Water: Introduced in small amounts after 6 months to help with hydration, especially in hot weather or when solid foods begin.
- Avoidance of fruit juice: The American Academy of Pediatrics advises limiting fruit juice due to high sugar content and lack of fiber.
- No cow's milk before 12 months: Early introduction can cause iron deficiency and digestive issues.
- No sugary drinks: To prevent added sugar intake, dental caries, and unhealthy taste preferences.
Related questions
Infants can start small amounts of water around 6 months of age, especially when beginning solid foods.
Fruit juice is not recommended for infants under 12 months and should be limited due to high sugar content.
Cow's milk should not be given as a main drink before 12 months due to nutritional concerns.
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From around the web
Infant Nutrition and Feeding
Comprehensive guidance on feeding infants including breast milk, formula, and introduction of water.
American Academy of Pediatrics
Healthy Eating for a Healthy Weight
Information on healthy dietary patterns including limiting sugary drinks for children.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Nutrition for Infants
Research-based information on infant nutrition and healthy feeding practices.
NICHD
Fruit Juice in Infants and Toddlers
Guidance on limiting fruit juice intake in young children.
American Academy of Pediatrics