Nursery World - Nutrition (13)

Water Depending how active they are, children aged under five lose about a litre of water a day, chiefly though breathing, urinating and sweating. Of course this water must be replaced, about half coming from food. Keeping well-hydrated is essential to keep the kidneys working properly and to help prevent constipation. Dehydration can lead to impaired brain function.

Depending how active they are, children aged under five lose about a litre of water a day, chiefly though breathing, urinating and sweating. Of course this water must be replaced, about half coming from food. Keeping well-hydrated is essential to keep the kidneys working properly and to help prevent constipation. Dehydration can lead to impaired brain function.

Plain tap water is the best thirst quencher and, apart from milk, is the only drink that you need to offer. Drinking bottled water is entirely unnecessary - it can be salty, and some kinds are too high in minerals for young children. So-called 'flavoured water' is only a type of lemonade under a different name. Squashes and other bottled and canned drinks can be extremely high in calories and rely heavily on a range of additives including sweeteners. (Always read the label on drinks as well as food products.)

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