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Demystifying 5 Common Baby Care Myths: Debunking Misconceptions for Better Parenting

Demystifying Baby Care: Debunking 5 Common Myths for Better Parenting

As soon as we have a newborn in a typical Indian household, our Nani’s and Dadi’s start preaching with what we know as age old traditions or “myths” that one needs to follow for betterment of one’s child. In general, also it is advisable by all to stick to these baby customs and traditions. 

However so many of these traditions and beliefs may not have scientific evidence to support their effectiveness and safety and may carry potential risks for our babies. At MUMTOT we believe in breaking age old myths that do not carry any benefits for our tots. Read ahead for 5 such stereotypes.

Debunking the Myth: Giving Honey as “Ghunti” to a Newborn – A Closer Look at Common Baby Care Myths

This is the first and foremost myth we will break. As per the experts babies younger than 1 year old should not be given honey.

Honey can contain spores of a bacterium called Clostridium botulinum, which can cause a rare but serious illness called infant botulism. Infants’ digestive systems are not yet fully developed, and they are more susceptible to this bacterium’s spores, which can multiply and produce toxins in their intestines.

The toxins produced by Clostridium botulinum can lead to muscle weakness, difficulty breathing, and other severe symptoms. It is important to note that even pasteurized or processed honey can still contain these spores and pose a risk to infants.

To ensure the safety and well-being of your newborn, it is recommended to avoid giving honey to them until they reach one year of age. As they grow older, their digestive system becomes more mature and better equipped to handle any potential risks associated with honey consumption.

Debunking the Myth: Applying Kohl or “KAJAL” to Baby’s Eyes – Exploring Baby Care Myths and Facts

It is believed that applying Kajal to baby’s eyes makes them bigger and eyesight better.  It is not recommended to apply kajal or any other cosmetic products to a baby’s eyes. Babies have delicate and sensitive skin, including the area around their eyes. 

Unfortunately, purchased Kajal is known to contain toxic amounts of lead which can not only cause itching and irritation in eyes but may also lead to infections.

The use of kajal or similar products can pose potential risks and may lead to adverse effects. Also no amount of Kajal is going to stretch the muscles around the baby’s eye socket and make it bigger. There is no scientific evidence supporting this myth.

Debunking the Myth: Removing Baby Hair – Unraveling Common Baby Care Myths and Misconceptions

Our ancestors believed that baby hair should be removed with consumables like ‘Besan’ & ‘Masoor Dal’ paste. The practice of removing baby hair with besan (gram flour) or similar substances is a cultural tradition in some communities.

It is believed to help promote healthy hair growth and improve the texture of the baby’s hair. However, from a medical standpoint, there is no scientific evidence to support these claims, and the decision to remove a baby’s hair is entirely a personal choice.

Moreover hair texture or skin type is all genetically determined thus these doesn’t get removed with these home remedies.

Debunking the Myth: Milk Removal from Baby’s Breast / Removing Witch’s Milk – Separating Fact from Fiction in Baby Care Myths

Milk production from baby’s breast occurs due to high maternal estrogen levels crossing the placenta into the baby’s blood. Hence the milky discharge which is resolved on it’s own.

Any time neonatal galactorrhea occurs, parents or caregivers should avoid stimulating the nipple or encouraging milk production. Drawing milk out can increase discharge production and irritate breast tissue, leading to prolonged lactation, abscesses, or mastitis.

Debunking the Myth: Shaking Baby Vigorously While Massaging – Dispelling Baby Care Myths for Safer Practices

Babies are often shaken vigorously during massage for better strength in the body. It is a dangerous practice and should never be done. It is a myth that shaking a baby vigorously during a massage has any beneficial effects. In fact, shaking a baby violently or forcefully can cause serious harm and even life-threatening injuries.

Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS) is a severe form of child abuse that can occur when a baby is violently shaken. The abrupt back-and-forth motion can cause the baby’s brain to move within the skull, leading to brain injury, bleeding, and other serious complications.

Babies have delicate neck muscles and weak neck support, making them particularly vulnerable to the effects of shaking. The purpose of a baby massage is to provide relaxation, promote bonding, and enhance the baby’s overall well-being.

*Just so you know writer is a new mom who has researched extensively for her tot. We encourage such awareness at our platform.

Read Next: Boosting Breast Milk Supply Naturally, Pregnancy Ultrasound Scans: Insights, benefits & Comprehensive list, 10 Essential tips for Postpartum Self-Care, A Holistic Guide to Infant Massage, Witch’s milk, Kajal in baby eyes, is it safe to apply Kajal