Do you give water to formula fed babies?

[zambooloo]

Hi, just wondered what people do - our gp said to as they will get thirsty but health visitor said it isn't necessary??

I would if baby is struggling to poop, offering an 1-3oz halfway between milk feeds. More so in the summer safer than the practice of adding more water than milk powder to bottles.

When I ffed DS, years ago I did as he was small over summer and would get quiote hot and thirsty and not keen on a filling ffeed.
With the dd's I bfed so they don't need it as the milk changes to their needs. FF isn't as clever so water is often needed

Not sure if 'guidelines' have changed though

It's not necessary unless it is a scorchingly hot day (and then it should only be a few mouthfuls not a whole bottle!). Giving straight water to babies messes with their electrolyte balance in their blood which can lead to complications such as seizures if comparatively large volumes are given.