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Concerns have been voiced whether a child should be provided with water during meals, whether water can fill up their stomach resulting in minor consumption of milk or other healthy foods 1.
According to the USDA, "...caregivers should not serve young children too much water before and during meal times; excess water may lead to meal displacement, reducing the amount of food and milk consumed by children. States and sponsors should encourage facilities to serve water with snacks when no other beverage is being served, and in lieu of other high calorie, sweetened beverages (juice drinks, soda, sports drinks, etc.) that are served outside of meal times." 2
But make sure your child gets enough water during the day as water aids digestion, helps prevent constipation, and is vital for proper blood circulation. It also helps transport nutrients and oxygen to cells, cushion joints and protects organs and tissues, helps regulate body temperature, and maintains electrolyte (sodium) balance.
Dr. Ziad Hashem
Pediatrician Infectious Pediatric Disease
