Does my baby need to take vitamin drops?
In general, you should only give vitamin or mineral drops to your baby if prescribed by a doctor. However, vitamin D should be given to breastfeeding babies. For more information see the section on Vitamin D.
Does my baby need to take fluoride drops?
Some babies may need fluoride drops after six months of age. Fluoride drops should only be given to a baby when recommended by a dental care provider.
Will there be any changes in my baby’s bowel movements when I introduce solid foods?
Changes in bowel movements are normal when there is a change in your baby’s food.
You may notice a change in the colour, size and consistency of your baby’s bowel movements. Your baby may have bowel movements more or less often. If you have any questions, contact your health care provider.
What about water?
Babies 6-12 months of age can be offered sips of water.
Offer water in an open cup, not a sippy cup. Do not give so much water that your baby fills up on it and then breastfeeds less or eats less other food.
- Use water from the cold water tap only.
- Lead and copper may build up in the water in the pipes overnight. Water from the hot water tap may contain higher amounts than water from the cold water tap, because they dissolve better in hot water. Lead and copper from the pipes is not healthy for your baby. Let the cold water tap run for two minutes each morning to flush out any overnight build-up of lead and copper in the water.
- The only bottled waters that are okay to give to your baby are:
- Non-carbonated natural spring water from underground springs
- Non-carbonated treated water with a low mineral content, which means less than 500 ppm or mg/L of total dissolved solids. Check the label.
- Spring water which is not bought at a store, including water from roadside springs, should not be used.
- Be cautious if using home water treatment equipment.
- Some water softeners increase the sodium content of the water, which is not good for anyone in the family.
- If you use charcoal water filters, be sure to change the filters as recommended by the manufacturer. This helps reduce the risk of bacterial growth.
- Be cautious if using private well water for infant feeding (birth to 24 months). Well water should be tested for:
- Coliform bacteria twice per year. Contact your nearest Government Service Centre about free testing for bacteria.
- Nitrates, nitrites, manganese, arsenic, uranium, fluoride and other heavy metals at least once every two years. These may be found naturally in high levels in your well. The provincial Department of Municipal Affairs and Environment can help you find laboratories where you can pay for this testing.
What about sodium (salt)?
Avoid adding salt when making food for your baby.
- A baby or child who learns to like foods high in sodium at a young age may have a life-time preference for these foods. Eating too much sodium can cause high blood pressure, which can lead to stroke, heart disease and kidney disease.
- Most sodium we eat is found in processed foods like:
- Canned or dry soups
- Canned pasta
- Packaged:
- noodle mixes
- rice mixes
- potato mixes
- macaroni and cheese dinner mixes
- Canned meats
- Packaged deli meats
- Canned and frozen dinners
- Other ready-to-eat foods
- Fast foods
- Restaurant meals
- Compare the Nutrition Facts table on the label of similar foods to help choose foods with less sodium. For more information see How to use food labels to make healthier choices from Canada’s food guide.
What about teething?
- Don’t worry if teething upsets your baby’s appetite. It should return to normal when the tooth comes through.
- For information on teething, and ways to help soothe youra baby, see the pamphlet Your Baby is Teething. It is available online or from your public health nurse.
How do I keep my baby’s teeth healthy?
- If your baby uses a pacifier, do not dip it in anything sweet. This may cause tooth decay.
- Never put your baby to bed with a bottle of breastmilk, infant formula, milk, juice or any sweet liquid. This can lead to tooth decay and is a choking hazard.
- Ask your public health nurse or dental care provider about the proper way to clean your baby’s teeth.
What about artificial sweeteners and other sugar substitutes?
Children do not need artificial sweeteners and other sugar substitutes. These products include aspartame, sucralose, acesulfame potassium and stevia.
Drinks containing these products might fill your baby up and take the place of nutritious foods that your baby needs. You should not give your baby drinks containing artificial sweeteners.
Your baby does not need other artificially sweetened foods. Let your baby enjoy the flavour of foods without added sweeteners.