Is Salt Bad for Babies?
When it comes to feeding your baby, you may wonder if salt is safe to add to their diet. While salt can be good for adults, giving too much to babies can be bad for their health. Here is an overview of the facts on salt and babies.
The Effects of Too Much Salt
Too much salt can be taxing on a young baby’s kidneys. Too much sodium can cause a baby to retain too much water, which can lead to dehydration. This can make it hard for them to nurse or take in enough fluids. It can also cause raised blood pressure, and this can put unhealthy strain on their little bodies.
How Much Salt Is Too Much?
Babies under one year of age should have less than 1g (1000mg) of salt each day. Even when you offer healthy foods, you should be mindful of the salt content of groceries.
What About Baby Food?
Most baby foods are low in sodium, but it’s still worth reading the labels to make sure that the content is suitable for a young baby. It’s also important to look for added salt in food bought from supermarkets, since it can be high in sodium.
Excess Salt in Formula
Formula-fed babies are more likely to consume more salt than breastfed babies, as infant formula is generally higher in sodium than breast milk. When choosing the right formula for your baby, read the labels carefully to compare the sodium content.
What Can I Do to Make Sure My Baby Gets Enough Salt?
There are several things you can do to ensure that your baby’s diet doesn’t contain too much salt:
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- Watch Out for Added Salt: Avoid adding salt to your baby’s food, and be mindful of the sodium content of the foods that you buy.
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- Give Healthy Snacks: Provide your baby with healthy snacks, such as unsalted nuts, fruits or vegetables.
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- Dilute Formula: If you’re formula-feeding your baby, dilute it with extra water to reduce the sodium content.
In conclusion, salt can be bad for babies in large quantities. Make sure that you read food labels carefully, and avoid adding salt to anything that your baby eats. With the right approach, you can make sure that your baby stays healthy and happy.