Keeping your baby hydrated is more important to parents than ever during summer, especially those who are spending time in warmer climates. With this in mind, Aptaclub Ireland has issued an important message to parents. The online platform, which offers expert nutritional advice and practical support to mums and dads, is reminding parents that not all bottled waters are suitable for babies and toddlers.
Aptaclub Ireland’s lead nutritionist, Jennifer Luddy said: “With lots of young families heading off on holiday to foreign countries and temperatures here in Ireland soaring too, it’s the perfect time to remind parents what water is suitable for babies and toddlers, and more importantly, which water is not.
“We’ve all been in a situation where we’re out and about a little longer than expected and need to pop to the shop and get some water, or indeed ask for the same at a bar or restaurant, when it’s feeding time. The most important thing to remember is that if you need to use bottled water either as a drink or to make formula, it must have a sodium content of less than 20mg per litre.
“A higher sodium content, which is essentially salt content, is not suitable for young children. The sodium level will be clearly labelled on the bottle either listed as ‘Sodium’ or as ‘Na’ and some brands even come with a baby-friendly tag. An example of two brands which are suitable and widely available are Evian and Volvic. It’s important to remember that all water whether tap or bottled, regardless of its sodium content, must be boiled and cooled before use up until baby is 12 months of age.
“It can be difficult to know if tap water is safe when we’re dealing with a foreign language or unfamiliar location so when it comes to travelling outside of Ireland, this bottled water approach is the safest – to keep baby happy and ensure your mind is at ease. But do be aware that even if bottled water is being used, it is still essential to follow the on -pack instructions when making up any formula milks.”
For more helpful tips on baby and toddler nutrition, visit aptaclub.ie
