WHY BABIES CAN’T DRINK WATER

At some point in everyone’s life, drinking water can become hazardous. In extreme cases, consuming even a few ounces of water can be fatal. While this might sound surprising, the human body's ability to handle water varies with age and health status.

The average healthy adult body is composed of 55 to 60% water, whereas a baby’s body contains approximately 75% water. This significant difference in water composition is crucial when considering the risks associated with water consumption. For infants, drinking water is not recommended before they reach at least six months of age. This recommendation is rooted in the development of their kidneys and their overall physiological capacity to manage water.

The kidneys are essential organs responsible for regulating the body’s water balance. Each person’s kidneys have a limit on how much water they can process within a given time. Exceeding this limit can lead to excess water entering the bloodstream and diluting sodium levels, resulting in a condition known as hyponatremia. Sodium is vital for maintaining fluid balance in and around cells. When sodium levels drop too low, the body attempts to correct the imbalance by allowing water to enter cells, causing them to swell.

The severity of the swelling can become critical if it affects brain cells. This condition, known as water intoxication or water poisoning, can lead to increased intracranial pressure. Symptoms may include confusion, vomiting, muscle spasms, and in extreme cases, seizures, brain damage, or death. This potentially life-threatening condition is rare but underscores the importance of understanding water intake limits.

Hyponatremia is notably observed in marathon runners who consume excessive amounts of water without adequate sodium intake. In these cases, the risk is considerably heightened due to the high volume of water intake over a short period. However, the risk is even more acute for infants because their kidneys are not fully developed. Newborns have kidneys that are only about half the size of those in adults, making them less efficient at processing water. Even a small amount of excess water can overwhelm their system. Their kidneys are not yet able to filter water as effectively, which means that water rapidly enters the bloodstream and dilutes sodium levels. This dilution increases their water content by approximately 7 to 8%, leading to severe health risks.

The dangers of excessive water intake in infants extend beyond drinking plain water. In many cases, water intoxication in babies is linked to diluted baby formula or accidental ingestion of water, such as when infants are submerged in a swimming pool. In such instances, the infant may ingest water, leading to similar complications as those caused by drinking too much water.

Recognizing the signs of water intoxication in an infant is critical. Symptoms may include irritability, lethargy, swelling around the eyes, and abnormal weight gain. Prompt medical attention is essential if these symptoms appear. Treatment typically involves administering an intravenous saline solution to restore sodium balance and counteract the effects of water intoxication.

For adults, achieving a life-threatening level of water consumption generally requires drinking between 2.5 to 5 gallons of water within a few hours, which is rare. Nonetheless, it is crucial to be aware of the risks, especially in cases of extreme hydration practices or certain medical conditions that might affect water balance.

In summary, while water is essential for maintaining health, it’s important to be aware of how much is consumed, particularly in vulnerable populations like infants. Their developing kidneys cannot handle excessive amounts of water, making them more prone to severe complications. Understanding and managing water intake, recognizing the symptoms of hyponatremia and water intoxication, and seeking prompt medical care can prevent potentially dangerous situations and ensure safety.