Debunking Four Common Myths Regarding Babies
Since the little sweeties can't talk -- or at least not very well -- it's only natural for myths about babies to be common. Well, here's the truth about four commonly believed misconceptions.
Anyone who's ever been a new parent has been bombarded with myths about babies, usually in the form of advice from friends and family. Sure, some of the advice is good, but mostly it's pure malarkey, based on assumptions rather than facts. In this very special episode, we'll provide the real 411 on all the baby-talk.
Myth 1: Babies that pull on their ears have earaches or ear infections.
Not always, though if they're tugging and crying, you should certainly take a look. The fact is, babies spend a lot of time exploring their bodies. Once Baby discovers they're there ears make good handles to grab. Playing with her feet doesn't mean Baby's got a foot ache, so don't worry so much about the ears.
Myth 2: Your baby will sleep better at night if you keep her awake all day.
This myth about babies seems like it should have some basis in truth -- after all, it would work this way for you, right? Well, pediatricians tell us that babies who are kept awake all day don't necessarily sleep better at night. In fact, your baby may end up being too tired and cranky to settle down easily at the end of the day.
Keep in mind, too, that very young babies need to wake up regularly to eat -- usually once every few hours. That being the case, she'll wake up during the night no matter how long you keep her up during the day. In any case, all babies need to sleep during the day for maximum health benefits.
Myth 3: Babies are always very, very expensive
.While this myth about babies may in fact be true, it doesn't have to be. Some people think that baby food, diapers, clothes, and the like will cost an arm and a leg. As a matter of fact however, breastfeeding is free, and you can be thrifty when purchasing and using diapers and clothing, especially if you use cloth diapers.
Myth 4: For the baby's protection, a breastfeeding mother should eat a completely bland diet.
No, most breastfeeding moms can eat just about anything, although the jury's still out on how allergenic foods like soy and wheat affect your baby. Some research suggests allergenic food can cause colic. Similarly, broccoli, beans, and onions and other gassy foods may cause gastric distress, though this is by no means certain.
Apparently, various flavors from the bland to the tangy and spicy, can be passed on through breast milk, which lets your baby experience different flavors and, according to some pediatricians, develop their sense of taste. So don't let this and other myths about babies stop you from educating your little gourmand's palate!
