When it comes to baby nutrition, parents are often inundated with advice and product promises. From colourful ads promoting "superfoods" to labels boasting of ingredients that supposedly enhance growth, the pressure to choose the right option can feel overwhelming.

Within these choices, baby nutrition myths frequently shape parental decisions, diverting focus from what truly matters: balanced, wholesome nourishment tailored to each baby's needs. While a baby's nutritional requirements naturally evolve over time, breastfeeding remains a critical component, especially in the early months.

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Sonal Babbar Bhardwaj, Co-Founder of Viraa Care, shared, “During the first six months, breastmilk supplies all the necessary energy and nutrients, making it an unrivaled source of nourishment. Its specialized composition, particularly the high content of easily digestible whey proteins, ensures effective nutrient absorption and supports healthy development in ways formula often struggles to replicate. However, the benefits of breastfeeding extend far beyond nutrition alone. Breastfeeding has a profound role in safeguarding both child and maternal health.”

Figures show that breast milk could potentially save the lives of 800,000 children under five each year while also preventing around 20,000 breast cancer deaths in mothers annually. Sonal Babbar Bhardwaj revealed, "Even at further stages, as babies progress from six to twelve months, breastfeeding fulfills more than half of their energy needs. During this stage, it becomes essential to introduce complementary foods such as pureed vegetables and fruits to support their growing nutritional requirements. However, the rise of commercial baby food has sparked controversy around this notion, leading to the first prevalent myth about baby nutrition: "Commercial baby food is the best option."

Baby bites and blunders

“Indeed, this myth has been popular as the global infant and toddler food market is experiencing a significant shift, with an increasing consumption of processed baby foods. Projections indicate that this market could reach an astounding US$ 120 billion by 2030. However, the concerns surrounding these products' nutritional quality, safety and long-term health implications need to be considered,” pointed out Sonal Babbar Bhardwaj.

She added, “For example, artificial colors and added sugars have been associated with hyperactivity in children and may pose long-term risks. Furthermore, certain preservatives, like sulfites, can lead to allergic reactions, and the cumulative effects of consuming these substances over time raise important questions about their safety for developing bodies.”

According to Sonal Babbar Bhardwaj, marketing plays a significant role in perpetuating this myth. She explained, “Many parents, while initially inclined toward homemade purees and breastfeeding, are swayed by companies that strategically enlist health professionals to endorse their products. This promotion is so pervasive that, in 2022, 51% of 8,528 pregnant women reported encountering formula milk marketing somewhere.”

She elaborated, "Over time, these carefully crafted messages subtly influence parental decisions as companies use scientific-sounding language and labels to exploit their concerns and aspirations. Social media further amplifies this effect, with celebrities, pediatricians and "mom influencers" regularly promoting formula milk and processed baby foods. These influencers have become key drivers in shaping parental preferences, often adding to the pressure to choose commercial products over more natural options."

As per Sonal Babbar Bhardwaj, another common myth is that rice cereal is the best first food for babies. She highlighted, “While rice is rich in carbohydrates, processed rice products like infant cereal contain arsenic, a heavy metal that can harm neurodevelopment if consumed excessively. Instead, healthier first food options, including vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, need to be considered. Choices like carrots, sweet potato, pumpkin, and papaya are full of beta carotene, which the body turns into vitamin A. Lastly, myths about babies needing juice for vitamins are challenged as it often contains too much sugar, leading to tooth decay and weight gain. Water is a far better option for hydration as babies transition to solid foods, providing hydration without the added sugars.”

Feeding little ones with facts, not fables

When prioritising a baby's health, supporting an evidence-based nutrition plan rather than a combination of highly marketed myths and commercial products is of utmost importance. Sonal Babbar Bhardwaj advised, “Instead of believing the most sold items, parents should concentrate on providing whole, nutrient-dense foods more appropriate for their babies' growing needs. While marketed baby foods are generally a single-desired option, purees made at home from fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are simply healthier. Moreover, consulting paediatricians and nutritionists is important in order to base decisions on professional advice instead of advertisements. Having the ability to discern where to acquire reputable information, parents can provide personalised health care, which can further promote a child's growth and pursue permanency while guiding caregivers toward the best possible choices.”

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