Sleep better, digest better, eliminate infant colic or simply provide a drink with a different flavor than water. These are usually the most common excuses for considering giving some type of infusions to the baby. For decades they have been something like ‘grandma’s home remedy’. Currently and with scientific evidence on the table, dietitians-nutritionists and pediatricians warn about what inconvenient It turns out that babies drink these types of drinks.
False properties attributed to infusions ‘for babies’
There are two great ancestral currents in this matter of using herbal teas to appease some male infants: those who resort to some infusion to help the baby sleep and the mythical infusions for the baby’s gas. Maria Marqués, dietitian-nutritionist, lactation consultant specialized in feeding during the perinatal period and member of the Spanish Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, breaks down some of the most common and the supposed properties for little ones.
Chamomile
The benefits of chamomile for babies are a classic that has been passed down from generation to generation. “This infusion is known for its relaxing and sedative properties, making it a popular choice to help babies sleep. It is believed that apigenin, a compound found in chamomile, binds to the brain receptors that promote sleep,” says Marqués.
It is also believed to be able to relieve gas. “Its anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce inflammation in the intestine, which could help relieve gas and insufficiency,” says the expert.
linden
This herb has also been commonly used to promote sleep. “It is believed to have anxiolytic and sedative properties that can help calm babies and prepare them for sleep,” he notes.
balm
In this case, its calming properties “can help reduce anxiety and stress. This is believed to make it easier for babies to fall asleep,” according to the dietitian-nutritionist.
Fennel
Fennel infusion has been commonly used to relieve gas and bloating in babies. “It is attributed with antispasmodic properties that help relax intestinal muscles and relieve cramps.”
mint
“Its carminative properties help move gas through the digestive system,” he explains. In this way it is believed that it would help relieve gas.
Why should babies not be given infusions?
It is easy to hear a distressed parent in the consultation asking what to give the baby to help him or her sleep or if there are ‘natural herbs to calm children’.
Although the practice of giving babies infusions to calm them, relieve their discomfort or help them sleep has been common for generations, today Medical and dietitian-nutritionist recommendations advise against this practice.
- Lack of nutritional value. “Infusions do not provide any significant nutritional value for babies. In addition, it is common to add a teaspoon of sugar or honey to make them more palatable, something that is not healthy for the baby.»
- Displacement of breast milk or formula. “Giving babies infusions can reduce the amount of breast milk or formula they consume. This can negatively affect their growth and development.”
- Botulism risk. Although it is unusual, in some cases «inadequate preparation of infusions with unboiled water, or with contaminated herbs, for example those collected in the field and not processed by any laboratory, could lead to the spread of the bacteria.» botulinum clostridium, which causes botulism. It is a serious disease that can affect the baby’s nervous system, causing symptoms such as muscle paralysis, difficulty breathing and constipation. In severe cases it can be fatal.”
- Unknown long-term effects. “There is no certainty about the long-term effects of consuming infusions on the health of babies. When in doubt, the precautionary principle must always be applied.”
As a lactation consultant, Marqués recalls that “current recommendations are based on promoting exclusive breastfeeding up to 6 months of age (or formula, failing that), avoiding any liquid other than milk.” If the baby has discomfort, such as colic, reflux or difficulty sleeping, the expert recommends Consult your pediatrician to identify the cause and receive appropriate treatment.
At what age is it safe for children to drink infusions?
We already know that it is not a good idea to give infusions to babies, neither so that they sleep better, nor so that the gases are less bothersome to them. But it is normal to wonder when you can start taking them. “From one year of age, and always under medical supervision, some infusions can be introduced gradually and in small quantities,” explains the dietitian-nutritionist.
It is important to choose specific infusions for babies, made with gentle herbs appropriate for their age, and that come from a laboratory specialized in these products. The most common are chamomile, lime blossom, fennel and lemon balm. “Infusions with herbs with stimulating effects, such as theine or caffeine, should be avoided, as well as those that contain added sugars.”
Warnings about infusions for babies
Babies are very sensitive to herbs and spices. Even small amounts can have adverse effects on them. Some infusions can also interact with medications, so it is important to always consult with the pediatrician before giving them to the baby. This is what happens with St. John’s wort, valerian, or ginkgo biloba.
They can also cause allergic reactions or intolerances. “It is important to observe if the child has any allergic reaction after taking an infusion for the first time. Especially with chamomile and mint.»
It should not be forgotten either that some herbs present in infusions can interfere with the absorption of certain nutrients, such as iron.
Finally, Marqués points out that babies’ kidneys “are not yet developed enough to process large amounts of liquid. «So infusions can contribute to dehydration, especially if they are given instead of breast milk or formula and in high quantities.»
Grandma says yes it works
We cannot deny grandmothers the knowledge that experience gives when it comes to caring for babies. However, it is important to remind you that medicine and children’s nutrition have come a long way in recent years. For this reason, Marqués advises letting them know, with love and respect, that the current recommendations are based on solid scientific evidence. In no case is it about being contrary, much less wanting to create an intergenerational conflict.
Precisely to save a possible confrontation with the older members of the clan, Marquis slips some advice:
• Appreciate your concern for the baby’s well-being.
• Explain that current medical recommendations advise against giving infusions to babies due to the risks they pose to their health.
• Share reliable information from medical sources, such as the Spanish Pediatric Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics or the World Health Organization.
• Offers safe and effective alternatives to relieve the baby’s symptoms, such as massages, hot baths or diaper changes.
• Listen carefully to their concerns and answer their questions with patience and respect.
• If your grandmother (or mother/mother-in-law) is still worried, suggest that she accompany you to the pediatrician with the baby. It is important to remember that the goal is to have an open and honest conversation with your predecessors, based on mutual respect and love.
The ALDI Council
From six months onwards you can give your baby water, as long as it does not interfere with breastfeeding. Remember to keep nipples, cups or other containers clean.
Maria Marquis. Maternal and child dietitian-nutritionist. He is a member of the Spanish Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. She graduated in Human Nutrition and Dietetics from the University of Navarra, European Master in Nutrition and Metabolism from the same university. She has worked on research projects, such as the SUN study, the PREDIMED study and EVASYON, as a dietician-nutritionist. She is the author and co-author of various scientific articles and collaborates as a popularizer in different media and magazines. She is the founder of the Maria Marqués Nutrición project, of the Koalacta.com online school and co-founder of the Hoy se come Podcast. She is also certified as a lactation consultant and has specialized in women’s nutrition, early childhood, and food allergies and intolerances. INSTAGRAM: @mariamarques.nutricion.
