Summer...too much of a good thing?

How to handle the summer heat

Today in my neck of the woods, records might be broken. The heatwave prediction is for the temperature to rise above 4o degrees! It is important to stay hydrated and whilst for us that might mean frequent drinks of cold water, many mums wonder about how to ensure their babies are well hydrated. Thankfully our breastmilk is still the perfect balance of water and nutrients for our children. For babies under 6 months, exclusive breastfeeding is still the recommended way to ensure babies receive what they need. If your baby is older, then in addition to more breastfeeds water can be offered from a cup. 
You may notice that your baby asks to feed more frequently but for a shorter duration when the weather is hot. Breastmilk is always changing to suit the baby's needs. When your baby begins their feed the milk available is less fat rich and is more watery which quenches your baby's thirst. As the feed progresses the fat content naturally increases. If your baby is having quick frequent feeds, they are more likely to be getting the lower fat milk, thus quenching their thirst. 

A reassuring indication of a well hydrated baby can be summed up by saying, "what goes in, must come out."

• At least 6 very wet cloth nappies or at least 5 very wet disposable nappies in 24 hours. The urine should be pale or clear in colour without a strong smell. A young baby should be stooling about three times a day, however a baby older than about a month may be having less dirty nappies than this. You will know what is usual for your child. 
• Good skin colour and muscle tone. Does she look like she fits her skin? 
• A listless baby with no energy can be a sign of heat stress or illness

When the mercury soars the idea of snuggling up on the sofa with our little ones may feel less than appealing. 
Here are some tips to help beat the heat:

• Stay well hydrated yourself. Keep a water bottle handy.
• Stay out of the sun during the hot weather. Stay indoors and if your home isn't air-conditioned consider a shopping centre or cafe that is.
• If you can't avoid the outdoors, look for shade, wear suncream and a hat - for you and your baby
• Make some ice chips with your breastmilk. Older babies can have fun and keep cool playing with and enjoying your breastmilk ice-lollies
• Wear less clothes
• Put a wet cloth nappy or something similar into the fridge to chill and then when it is time to feed place that between you and your baby
• Feed baby in the bath or pool or feed after you hop out. This can be particularly refreshing if you can position yourself under a fan whilst still damp.
• Keep a light wrap handy to mop up sweat during a feed or to place in between you and your baby. This will help keep you feeling fresh

The summer heat can feel unrelenting. Thankfully when it's too hot to do anything else, having a baby to "do nothing" with is the best way to pass the time.

"Deep summer is when laziness finds respectability" - Sam Keen