Myths, Beliefs, and Misconceptions in Infant and Young Child Feeding Practices in India: Implications for Child Nutrition

Optimal infant and young child feeding (IYCF) practices—early initiation of breastfeeding, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, and timely complementary feeding—are critical for growth, immunity, and survival [1,2]. These practices protect against common childhood illnesses and reduce mortality [2,3]. In India, sociocultural norms, demographic factors, education level, religion, and entrenched beliefs influence maternal feeding behavior [4,5]. Despite evidence that early initiation and exclusive breastfeeding could prevent a large proportion of childhood deaths, many mothers delay breastfeeding, discard colostrum, or introduce prelacteal feeds due to myths and cultural misconceptions [5,6]. National data show that while exclusive breastfeeding rates have improved (63.7% per NFHS 5) [7], early initiation remains low (~41.8%) [7] and prelacteal feeding persists in many states, reflecting ongoing practice–knowledge gaps [6,7]. Moreover, disease burden from undernutrition remains high, with significant proportions of young children not receiving adequate diets during complementary feeding ages [8].