What is the primary misconception among mothers regarding feeding liquids other than milk to infants?

Correct option is A

The most common misconception among mothers is that giving liquids other than breast milk—like gripe water, herbal teas, or plain water—helps relieve problems such as colic and gas in infants. However, major health organizations like WHO and CDC recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life. Breast milk alone is sufficient for hydration and nutrition, and introducing other liquids may disrupt breastfeeding and expose the infant to infections.

Explanation of each option:

• (a) It helps lessen problems like colic and infant gas – Correct answer. This is a common but incorrect belief. Studies show no benefit of non-milk liquids for colic or gas, and they may introduce infection.

• (b) It boosts infants' immunity against infections – Breast milk boosts immunity, not other liquids. Giving water or herbal drinks may actually lower immunity by displacing nutritious breast milk.

• (c) It promotes better sleep pattern in infants – No scientific evidence supports this. Sleep cycles in infants depend on brain development, not liquids.

• (d) It aids in weight loss for the mother – Maternal weight loss is supported by breastfeeding itself, not by giving other fluids to the baby.