Fluid Intake Recommendations for Infants and Young Children

Introduction to Fluid Needs

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that breastfed infants do not require additional water until they start solid foods, at which point small amounts (about 60-120 ml) of water can be given 1
For children around 1 year of age with a weight of approximately 10 kg, the total fluid requirement is 1000 ml/day (100 ml/kg/day for the first 10 kg) 4, 3
The World Health Organization suggests that about 20% of total water intake comes from food (mainly fruits and vegetables) 3

For infants over 6 months, water can be introduced in small amounts (about 60-120 ml) during meal times 1, 2
Children around 1.5 years of age with a weight of approximately 12 kg require about 1100 ml of fluid per day 3, 4
The European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition recommends that children should drink water regularly throughout the day, not just at meal times 3

Adequate hydration is indicated by moist mucous membranes and normal urine frequency (at least 6-8 times per day with pale urine) 3, 5
The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that urine output and color can be used to assess hydration status in children 1

Fever, hyperventilation, or hypermetabolism increase fluid needs and require adjustments above basic requirements 4, 3
Hot weather or high environmental temperatures require additional fluid intake 4, 3
Diarrhea, vomiting, or other gastrointestinal fluid losses require fluid replacement 5

Water should be the primary beverage for hydration 3
Low-fat or non-fat milk contributes to fluid needs and should be included in the daily diet 3
Fruit juice should be limited to a maximum of 4 ounces (120 ml) per day for children aged 1-3 years 3