I HAD to give my daughters water as babies because if not, they would want to drink their formula every two hours! They were little piggies! When I started giving apple juice, I watered it half and half - probably did that until they were over 2 years old and could tell the difference!
I never gave fruit punch, kool aid or any sports drinks though and to this day my girls (14 and 12 years old) really only drink water and milk. The youngest will not touch a soda (but the oldest does enjoy her DP in moderation). She accidentally drank from my cup of Sprite once and about gagged! She does like Ovaltine milk though. They both drink lots of water and no sports drinks.
Anyway, back to your question (sorry!)..... you didn't say WHY they don't recommend water. Is it the fluoride? Our house had a water softener and filter on the water.