Published on September 20th, 2021 and Updated on January 19th, 2024
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For new parents, few things are as concerning as when your baby falls ill. Even a minor cold can seem like a serious issue when you’re still learning the ropes to this whole raising-a-tiny-human thing. While a minor cold may not be cause for alarm, illnesses that come with vomiting, diarrhea, or high fever can put your baby at an increased risk of dehydration. When looking to keep your mini-me properly hydrated during sickness, you might wonder,
When can babies have Pedialyte?
The short answer is that babies who are at least 1 year old can be given small sips of Pedialyte every 15 minutes to combat dehydration. However, if your baby is under 1 year, or if she’s still drinking breastmilk or formula, you’ll need to follow slightly different protocols. Fortunately, with our Pedialyte guide, you’ll learn how to effectively hydrate and heal your little one.
What is Pedialyte?
Pedialyte is an oral rehydration solution (ORS) that works to prevent and treat dehydration through a combination of water, sugar, and electrolytes. It’s the presence of these powerful electrolytes that make Pedialyte such an effective remedy for dehydration.
Some examples of electrolytes include:
- Sodium
- Chloride
- Potassium
- Calcium
- Magnesium
- Bicarbonate
Pedialyte boasts sodium, potassium, and chloride. When combined with a precise concentration of sugars, this electrolyte solution is easily absorbed into your baby’s body.
Pedialyte or a pediatrician?
While Pedialyte can offer a safe and affordable at-home solution to some instances of dehydration, you’ll want to schedule an appointment with your pediatrician if:
- Your baby has been sick for more than 24 hours
- Diarrhea persists for more than 8 hours
- You notice blood in the diarrhea
- Vomiting persists for more than 12 hours
- Your baby has a fever of over 102 degrees Fahrenheit
Otherwise, you can turn to Pedialyte.
When can babies have Pedialyte?
A well-hydrated baby is a healthy baby. While adults primarily rely on drinking water for hydration, infants receive their essential fluids from breastmilk or formula. Breast milk contains over 80% water, and regular formula is about 85% water. However, newborns have 18% more water in their bodies than adults and a higher metabolic rate, which means they can lose water quickly. This makes them susceptible to dehydration in various situations, including:
- Illness: When your baby is unwell, even minor discomforts like a stuffy nose, sore throat, or earache can make it challenging for them to eat or drink, increasing the risk of dehydration. Finding the best sleeping position for a baby with a stuffy nose can also help provide relief during these times.
- Fever: High body temperatures during a fever can lead to increased fluid loss through sweat. Additionally, fever can cause the loss of essential electrolytes, which are crucial for maintaining the nervous system and muscle function.
- Vomiting or Diarrhea: Vomiting, often accompanied by diarrhea, can result in significant fluid and electrolyte loss. If you notice your baby’s bowel movements are larger, runnier, or more frequent than usual, it may be a sign of diarrhea.
- Feeding Issues: If your baby has difficulty latching properly during breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, they may not be getting enough breastmilk or formula, potentially leading to dehydration.
- Heat Exposure: Prolonged exposure to hot and humid conditions or excessive time in the sun can cause your baby to lose excess fluids through sweating.
In such situations, it’s essential to monitor your baby’s hydration levels closely. If you’re concerned about their hydration or suspect dehydration, consult your pediatrician. They can provide guidance on whether Pedialyte or another oral rehydration solution is appropriate for your baby’s specific needs.
How to Tell If Your Baby is Dehydrated
If your little one is refusing to eat, or if she’s suffering from a fever, vomiting, or diarrhea, she may also be experiencing mild dehydration. Mild dehydration can be difficult to recognize in infants, as it isn’t typically accompanied by any outward symptoms. However, in cases of moderate dehydration, you’ll notice the following signs:
- Increased heart rate
- Rapid breathing
- Few tears while crying
- Dry mouth or tongue
- Irritability or excessive fussiness
- Dark, strong-smelling urine
- Decreased urine output (specifically, less than 4 wet diapers in 24 hours)
How to Serve Pedialyte to Your Baby
To prevent mild and moderate dehydration, research suggests serving an ORS like Pedialyte to babies over 1 year old as soon as vomiting or diarrhea occurs, or at the first signs of dehydration. Regardless of whether symptoms are mild or moderate, it’s also best to contact your pediatrician to determine whether your little one needs to be seen or needs additional medication.
In addition to your baby’s age, the optimal dosage and administration of Pedialyte will also depend between a breastfed baby and a formula-fed baby. For effective and safe treatment, the following guidelines are recommended:
For Babies Younger than 6 Months
Babies younger than 6 months are especially prone to severe dehydration. Introducing fluids other than breastmilk or formula to such young infants can lead to potential medical issues, including water intoxication and electrolyte imbalances. Therefore, it’s crucial to strictly follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations regarding the introduction of Pedialyte or any alternative hydration methods for babies in this age group.
For Babies Younger than 1 Year
If your baby is 6 months to 1 year old, it’s still vital to seek advice from your pediatrician before giving Pedialyte. Dehydration can progress rapidly in infants, and in severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary. Beyond the risk of severe dehydration, infants younger than 6 months are at a heightened risk of experiencing medical complications if they are given fluids other than breast milk or formula.
For Breastfed Babies
If you’re breastfeeding, it’s important to serve Pedilayte alongside your breast milk, not as a replacement for your breast milk. This is because antibodies in your breast milk can help your baby fight off any illness he may be suffering from. Plus, nursing can be a much-needed comfort during your little one’s time of need.
To avoid overfilling your baby’s belly (which can lead to vomiting that will only inhibit his recovery), nurse your baby in shorter intervals during this time, and use a teaspoon or syringe to serve him between 0.15 and 0.3 fluid ounces of Pedialyte (5 to 10 milliliters) every fifteen minutes after each feeding.
The approximate amounts of Pedialyte you can serve within a 24-hour period are as follows:
- For babies weighing 7 pounds – 16 ounces
- For babies weighing 11 pounds – 23 ounces
- For babies weighing 22 pounds – 40 ounces
- For babies weighing 26 pounds – 44 ounces
- For babies weighing 33 pounds – 51 ounces
- For babies weighing 40 pounds – 61 ounces
For Formula-Fed Babies
If your baby is on formula, and her dehydration is the result of (or has prompted) vomiting, it’s best to hold off on feeding her more formula. Instead, try administering Pedialyte in doses of between 0.15 to 0.3 fluid ounces every fifteen minutes or so. This will ensure your baby receives the fluid and electrolytes she needs without overfilling her tiny tummy and causing her discomfort. For a total daily amount of Pedialyte, you can follow the weight allowance chart from above.
Another important tip for formula-fed babies?
Avoid mixing Pedialyte with your baby’s formula. Doing so can change the nutrient and mineral content of the formula, as well as the Pedialyte, resulting in less effective rehydration. Plus, mixing formula with Pedialyte will create a thick, clumpy mixture that will be too difficult for your baby to drink and digest comfortably.
Important Safety Precautions for Using Pedialyte
Before incorporating Pedialyte into your child’s care routine, it’s crucial to be aware of certain precautions and guidelines to ensure its safe and effective use.
- Allergy Awareness: A small number of children may have allergic reactions to ingredients in Pedialyte. Signs of an allergic reaction include rash, hives, itching, redness, swelling, or difficulty breathing. If you observe any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to contact your child’s pediatrician immediately.
- Risk of Hypernatremia: Improper mixing of oral rehydration solutions like Pedialyte can lead to hypernatremia, characterized by high blood sodium levels. Symptoms start with irritability and agitation and can progress to drowsiness and unresponsiveness.
- Storage and Consumption: Once Pedialyte is opened or prepared, it should be refrigerated and either consumed or discarded within 48 hours. This practice reduces the risk of contamination with harmful bacteria and ensures the product’s effectiveness.
Benefits of Pedialyte for Babies
Pedialyte, renowned for its effectiveness in managing dehydration in babies, offers several benefits that make it a preferred choice for parents. Understanding these advantages can help you make informed decisions when caring for your baby during illness or dehydration.
- Rapid Rehydration: Designed for quick absorption, Pedialyte efficiently restores hydration levels in babies, outperforming water and regular drinks.
- Electrolyte Balance: It replenishes essential electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and chloride, vital for nerve and muscle function, lost during vomiting or diarrhea.
- Safe and Gentle: Pedialyte is tailored for infants’ sensitive digestive systems, making it suitable for those with stomach upset.
- Supports Overall Wellness: It aids in vital bodily functions like circulation and digestion by maintaining hydration and electrolyte balance.
- Flavor Options: With multiple flavors, Pedialyte appeals to babies, encouraging them to stay hydrated, even when fussy.
- Versatility: Useful not just for illness-related dehydration, but also in situations like heat exposure, making it a valuable tool for parents.
Side Effects of Pedialyte
Although most children don’t experience any adverse side effects after taking Pedialyte, it’s nevertheless important to be aware of their potential so that you can monitor your child after introducing this new oral rehydration fluid.
Side effects can include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Swelling in the feet and ankles
- Restlessness
Likewise, allergic reactions have been associated with Pedialyte, though only in rare cases. If you notice any of the following reactions, it may be a sign of an allergy:
- Itching or rashes
- Swelling of the face, tongue, or throat
- Trouble breathing
If your baby exhibits any of these symptoms after drinking Pedialyte, call your doctor right away.
When your baby is dehydrated, serving her small doses of Pedialyte can help replenish her electrolytes, rehydrate her body, and restore her comfort. That way, she can get back to her busy schedule of exploring, playing, and trying to munch on her own delicious toes.
Pedialyte Products & Alternatives
When considering options for rehydrating your baby, Pedialyte stands out as a leading choice. However, understanding the range of Pedialyte products and potential alternatives can help you make the best decision for your little one’s needs.
Pedialyte Products
- Classic Pedialyte: The original formula, available in various flavors, is a go-to for many parents. It’s designed to provide balanced hydration and electrolyte replenishment.
- Pedialyte Freezer Pops: These are a novel way to administer Pedialyte, especially useful for older babies who can safely consume frozen treats. They are as effective as the liquid form and come in kid-friendly flavors.
- Pedialyte AdvancedCare Plus: With more electrolytes, this version is ideal for more severe cases of dehydration. It also contains PreActiv® Prebiotics, supporting digestive health.
Alternatives to Pedialyte
- Homemade ORS Solutions: A mix of water, salt, and sugar in specific proportions can provide temporary relief. However, the precise balance is crucial for safety and effectiveness.
- Other Commercial ORS Brands: There are other brands offering similar benefits as Pedialyte. These may vary in sugar content, flavors, and additional nutrients.
- Natural Hydration: For mild cases, natural fruit juices diluted with water, coconut water, or broth can provide hydration. However, they may lack the precise electrolyte balance needed for more severe dehydration.
Explore More on Baby Nutrition with SneakPeek
Want more tips for keeping your baby healthy and nourished (with food other than her toes)? Check out our SneakPeek blog for insightful articles on baby nutrition and development. Discover when it’s safe to introduce common foods to your little one with topics like, “When Can Babies Have Cheerios?”, “When Can Babies Have Chocolate?”, and “When Can Babies Have Salt?”. Our blog is packed with valuable guidance to help you navigate the exciting journey of your baby’s dietary milestones. Stay informed and confident as you make those all-important nutritional decisions for your growing baby.
Editorial Policy
At SneakPeek, our commitment is to provide accurate, up-to-date, and reliable information to empower our readers. Our content is thoroughly researched, reviewed by medical experts, and fact-checked to ensure its credibility. We prioritize the well-being and education of our readers, and our editorial policy adheres to the highest standards of integrity and accuracy in all our articles.
This post has been reviewed for accuracy by the following medical professionals:
Dr. Heather Soper, Certified Nurse Midwife
Dr. Heather Soper brings over 15 years of experience in women's health and obstetrics to her role as the owner of The Genesis Resort for Birth. Complementing her clinical practice, she serves as an Assistant Professor of Nursing at James Madison University, where she educates nursing students with a focus on compassionate, patient-centered care. Her advanced training and dedication to midwifery are evident in her contribution to both academia and the wellness of expectant mothers
Katie Smith is a seasoned Certified Nurse Midwife and a nurturing mother to six children, offering a unique blend of professional expertise and personal experience. She is the founder of Birth Your Way Midwifery and Women’s Wellness Center in Bay County, Florida. Katie's comprehensive approach to care is informed by her hands-on experience in motherhood and her passion for empowering women through their birthing journey. Her dedication extends beyond her center as she actively engages in community wellness and family health education.
Sources:
- Healthline. Pedialyte For Babies: Benefits, Dosage, and Safety. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/pedialyte-for-babies
- MomLovesBest. Can I Give My Baby Pedialyte? https://momlovesbest.com/pedialyte-for-baby
- Healthline. Electrolytes: Definition, Functions, Imbalance, and Sources. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/electrolytes#definition
- Pedialyte. Pedialyte Facts. https://pedialyte.com/pedialyte-facts
- Healthline. When Should My Baby Drink Water? https://www.healthline.com/health/parenting/babies-drink-water
- Seattle Children’s. Bottle-Feeding (Formula) Questions. https://www.seattlechildrens.org/conditions/a-z/bottle-feeding-formula-questions/#:~:text=Reason%3A%20regular%20formula%20is%2085,of%20extra%20water%20per%20day.
- Very Well Family. Dehydration in Newborns and Infants. https://www.verywellfamily.com/dehydration-in-the-breastfed-infant-431631#citation-6
- C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital. Dehydration. https://www.mottchildren.org/health-library/dehyd
- NCBI. Pediatric Dehydration. ??https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK436022/
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- Healthline. Everything You Should Know About Hypernatremia. https://www.healthline.com/health/hypernatremia
- Mayo Clinic. Sick baby? When to seek medical attention. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/healthy-baby/art-20047793
- Pedialyte for Babies: Benefits, Dosage, and Safety https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/pedialyte-for-babies#safety
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