Coconut water before 1 year?Image Credit source: Getty Images
The stomach of children under 1 year of age is very delicate, so it is important to pay special attention to what to feed them at this age. At this time, their digestive system is not fully developed, so giving even a little wrong thing can cause problems like stomach ache, gas, vomiting or diarrhea. Therefore, it is not right to give any drink or food without thinking at this age.
coconut water It is light and fresh. It helps in providing hydration to the body, but coconut water should not be given to children below 6 months of age. At this age only mother’s milk should be given. After 6 months, when the baby is introduced to light and soft food, coconut water can be given in very small quantities. Start with 1 to 2 teaspoons and increase gradually. Coconut water should always be fresh. The thing to keep in mind is that giving any kind of external liquid, juice, honey or water before 6 months can have an adverse effect on the child’s stomach. Therefore, it is better to take doctor’s advice before giving anything new.
What to keep in mind while giving coconut water after 6 months?
Dr. Rakesh Bagri, former Pediatric Department at AIIMS It is said that coconut water can be given to children above 6 months of age, but some precautions must be taken. Always give fresh coconut water. Do not give packaged or flavored coconut water available in the market, as sugar and preservatives are added to it. Always give coconut water to the child at normal temperature, do not give very cold water.
Keep in mind that the child should not have any stomach related problems like gas, diarrhea, vomiting or stomach ache. If there is any such problem then do not give coconut water. Always start with a very small quantity and it is best to give it only once a day. Coconut water is given to children aged between 6 to 12 months only as a support, the real nutrition still comes from mother’s milk.
Keep these things in mind also
Salt, sugar and honey should not be given to children before 1 year.
When introducing a new food, give only one thing at a time.
Contact a doctor immediately if any unusual symptoms occur.