Breastfeeding and Other Fluids
A common question often asked by breastfeeding mothers is whether their baby requires other fluids, such as water, whilst being fully breastfed.
When you are breastfeeding exclusively the baby does not require any other food or drinks. Often well-meaning friends or strangers will advise you to give the baby a little bottle of cooled boiled water, especially if it is a warm day.
However, although a formula-fed baby may require drinks of water to help avoid constipation, your breastfed baby will not. Breastmilk changes according to the temperature and the age of your baby so it is always the correct consistency for your baby.
At the beginning of each breastfeed the milk is very light and thirst-quenching; then it becomes thick, creamy and nourishing, thus satisfying baby's hunger. On warm days you may find your baby drinking more frequently and possibly for shorter lengths of time simply because she is thirsty and the milk is just right for her requirements!
