how to make glucose water for babies

How to Make Glucose Water for Babies: A Step-by-Step Guide

As a parent, it can be quite alarming when your baby is unwell or in need of some quick hydration. One common solution that healthcare professionals often recommend is glucose water. Glucose water is a mixture of water and glucose, which provides instant energy to babies and helps with dehydration. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making glucose water at home, ensuring your little ones receive the care they need in a natural and safe way.

Ingredients and Supplies

Before we dive into the steps, let’s take a look at the ingredients and supplies you’ll need to prepare glucose water:

1 cup of clean drinking water
1 tablespoon of glucose powder
A clean bottle or cup with a lid or nipple
A clean spoon for stirring

Step 1: Boil the Water

The first step is to boil the water. Boiling helps ensure that the water is free from any harmful bacteria or impurities. To do this, bring the water to a rolling boil in a clean pot or kettle. Let it boil for around 2-3 minutes to be on the safe side.

Step 2: Cool the Water

Once the water has boiled, let it cool down to room temperature. It is crucial to ensure that the water is not too hot, as it can burn your baby’s sensitive mouth and throat. You can speed up the cooling process by placing the pot or kettle in a bowl of cold water or leaving it at room temperature for a while.

Step 3: Add Glucose Powder

Once the water has cooled down, it is time to add the glucose powder. Measure out one tablespoon of glucose powder and add it to the clean bottle or cup. Glucose is a natural sugar that provides instant energy to the body.

Step 4: Mix Well

Use a clean spoon to mix the glucose powder with the water thoroughly. Stir until all of the glucose powder has dissolved. This ensures that the solution is evenly distributed and ready for your baby to consume.

Step 5: Offer Glucose Water to Your Baby

Now, your glucose water is ready to be offered to your little one. You can use a clean bottle with a nipple or a cup with a lid depending on your baby’s preference and age. Gently offer the glucose water to your baby and observe their response and acceptance. Note that you should never force your baby to drink if they are not willing to.

Step 6: Storage and Usage

If there is any glucose water left after your baby has consumed the desired amount, it is important to store it properly. Pour the remaining glucose water into a clean, airtight container and refrigerate it. However, it is recommended to prepare fresh glucose water for every use to maintain its effectiveness and ensure hygiene.

Precautions and Tips

While glucose water can be beneficial for your baby, there are a few important precautions and tips to keep in mind:

Always follow the recommended ratio of water to glucose powder. Adding too much glucose can lead to digestive issues.
Consult your pediatrician before using glucose water, especially if your baby has any health conditions or allergies.
Do not use glucose water as a substitute for breast milk or formula milk. It should only be used as a temporary measure for hydration.
Observe your baby’s response to glucose water. If there are any negative reactions or symptoms, discontinue use and seek medical advice.

how to make glucose water for babies