Breastfeeding is one of the most natural aspects of motherhood, yet it is also one of the most misunderstood. From well-meaning relatives to friendly neighbours and social media threads, mothers often hear a long list of do’s and don’ts that can feel confusing, contradictory and, at times, overwhelming. In India especially, cultural beliefs, traditional advice and generational practices often shape how new mothers approach breastfeeding. While some of this advice is harmless, plenty of it is based on myths rather than facts. These myths not only create unnecessary anxiety but can also interfere with breastfeeding success.
As a lactation professional who has supported thousands of families, I can confidently say that most breastfeeding challenges become easier when accurate information replaces misconceptions. Here, we take a closer look at some of the most common myths surrounding breastfeeding in India and uncover the facts so parents can make informed choices.
Myth 1: Drinking more milk will increase breastmilk supply
This is perhaps one of the most widespread pieces of advice: that a breastfeeding mother must drink litres and litres of milk every day to produce enough breastmilk. Many mothers are told that if they don’t drink milk, their own supply will automatically suffer.
The fact:
A mother’s milk supply does not depend on how much milk she drinks. Breastmilk production is governed by a simple physiological principle: supply and demand. The more frequently and effectively the baby feeds, the more milk the mother’s body will produce. Milk production is stimulated by the removal of milk from the breasts, not by the mother’s intake of dairy.
Of course, hydration matters. A dehydrated mother may feel tired and her supply may dip temporarily, but ordinary hydration through water, fluids and regular meals is more than enough. Mothers may drink milk if they enjoy it, but it is not a requirement for breastfeeding success.
Myth 2: Eating cold foods will give the baby a cold
From curd and citrus fruits to juices and even salads, many new mothers are told to avoid “cold” or “cold-natured” foods as they may supposedly cause a cold in the breastfed baby.
The fact:
A breastfeeding mother’s diet does not transmit temperature to her baby. The food she eats is digested, absorbed and metabolised long before nutrients enter her breastmilk. A baby may catch a cold due to viral exposure, weather changes or contact with someone who is unwell, but not because the mother ate something cold.
There is no scientific evidence linking cold foods to infant colds. Mothers can safely enjoy curd, fruits, juices and any other nutritious foods they normally consume.
Myth 3: Eating more ghee will make breastmilk thicker, heavier or more nutritious
In many Indian households, new mothers are encouraged to eat very rich foods, especially ghee, under the belief that it improves milk quality, makes it “heavier” or more filling for the baby.
The fact:
The composition of breastmilk remains remarkably consistent irrespective of how much ghee a mother eats. Human milk is designed to provide the perfect balance of fats, proteins and carbohydrates for babies. While a mother’s overall diet and health may influence certain fatty acids marginally, eating ghee in excessive amounts will not make milk thicker or richer.
Too much ghee can instead cause digestive discomfort, excess weight gain and lethargy in the mother. A balanced diet with adequate calories, whole foods and healthy fats is sufficient. Breastmilk is naturally tailored to the baby’s needs and does not require boosting through heavy eating.
Myth 4: Breastmilk is not enough for the baby to sleep well, so formula must be given
This is a particularly common concern among new parents who feel their baby wakes up frequently and assume it means they are not satisfied with breastmilk. Well-meaning elders may suggest formula at night to help the baby “sleep through”.
The fact:
Newborns wake often because their stomachs are tiny and need frequent feeds. This is biologically normal and protective. Breastmilk is easily digested, which means babies naturally feed more often, especially in the early weeks.
Introducing formula to make a baby sleep longer can disrupt breastfeeding by:
- reducing the baby’s time at the breast
- decreasing breast stimulation
- leading to a drop in milk supply
- increasing the risk of constipation or digestive issues for the baby
Frequent waking is not a sign of insufficient milk but a normal developmental pattern. Over time, as the baby grows, sleep duration improves naturally. If parents are concerned about supply, correct breastfeeding techniques, latch and positioning should be evaluated rather than resorting to formula unnecessarily.
Myth 5: Foods that the mother eats cause gas in the baby
Avoiding lentils, cabbage, cauliflower, onions, chole, rajma and countless other foods is a common practice for breastfeeding mothers who fear that these foods might pass gas to the baby.
The fact:
Gas in babies is caused by their developing gut and immature digestive system. The gas that forms in a mother’s digestive tract does not move into breastmilk. Most foods eaten by the mother do not cause gas in the baby.
Very rarely, some infants may react to specific proteins found in the mother’s diet, such as dairy or soy, but this is uncommon and usually accompanied by other symptoms like skin rashes or blood in stools. For the vast majority of mothers, there is absolutely no need to restrict healthy foods.
A varied diet helps the baby develop tolerance to different flavours and foods as they grow.
Myth 6: Lying down and breastfeeding will cause an ear infection in the baby
This belief often prevents mothers from comfortably feeding in bed, especially at night.
The fact:
Breastfeeding in a lying-down position does not cause ear infections. Ear infections in babies are usually caused by viral or bacterial infections and the structure of their Eustachian tubes. Breastmilk, in fact, contains antibodies that help protect babies from infections, including ear infections.
Lying-down feeding is safe when done correctly, especially for night feeds, and allows the mother to rest. It is important, however, that the mother and baby are positioned safely to avoid the risk of accidental smothering.
Myth 7: Mothers should not exercise while breastfeeding
Many women are told to avoid workouts because exercise supposedly makes the milk sour, reduces supply or affects the baby’s digestion.
The fact:
Moderate exercise does not alter the taste or quality of breastmilk. It also does not reduce supply as long as the mother is adequately nourished and hydrated. In fact, exercise can help improve mood, energy levels and overall wellbeing during the postpartum period.
Only extremely intense exercise may cause a temporary increase in lactic acid, but this is not harmful to the baby and does not require mothers to stop breastfeeding.
Walking, yoga, strength training, swimming and postnatal fitness routines can all be safely enjoyed.
Myth 8: Feeding should be done only on schedule, not on demand
Some families believe that feeding a baby too often spoils them or creates bad habits, and insist that babies should be fed every two to three hours only.
The fact:
Breastfeeding works best when babies are fed on demand, meaning whenever they show early hunger cues. Scheduled feeds can lead to inadequate milk removal, resulting in reduced supply and a frustrated baby. Feeding on demand helps establish a healthy supply, supports growth and ensures the baby remains content and well-nourished.
Myth 9: Colostrum (the first milk) is too thick and should be discarded
In some communities, mothers are advised not to feed colostrum because it is considered stale, dirty or harmful.
The fact:
Colostrum is one of the most valuable substances a newborn can receive. It is rich in antibodies, immune cells, proteins and nutrients that protect the baby from infections and help the gut mature. Discarding colostrum deprives the infant of crucial early protection.
Myth 10: Breastfeeding must stop if the mother falls sick or takes medication
Many mothers fear that illness or medication could harm the baby and stop breastfeeding abruptly.
The fact:
Most common illnesses, including colds, fever and infections, do not require stopping breastfeeding. In fact, the mother’s body produces antibodies that pass through the breastmilk and help protect the baby.
Many medications are also compatible with breastfeeding. Only a small number are contraindicated. Mothers should always consult their doctor or a lactation consultant before stopping breastfeeding unnecessarily.
Myth 11: Mothers with small breasts cannot produce enough milk
This myth can seriously damage a mother’s confidence before breastfeeding even begins.
The fact:
Breast size is determined by fatty tissue, not milk-producing glands. Even mothers with small breasts have sufficient glandular tissue to make adequate milk. What matters most is effective feeding, frequent stimulation and correct technique.
Myth 12: Breastfeeding mothers must drink special herbal concoctions or ‘kadhas’ to increase milk supply
Across India, new mothers are often given traditional herbal brews made with ajwain, methi, jeera, gond, haldi and many other ingredients. These are believed to instantly boost milk supply and are sometimes given in large quantities, regardless of whether the mother enjoys them or not.
The fact:
While certain herbs like fenugreek or cumin may have mild galactagogue properties for some women, no herbal drink is universally necessary for breastfeeding. Milk supply depends primarily on effective and frequent feeding, not on external boosters. Herbal concoctions can be supportive when used moderately and based on the mother’s comfort, but forcing them or taking them in excess can sometimes lead to digestive discomfort, dehydration or a false sense of relying on supplements rather than ensuring proper latch and feeding technique.
Mothers may choose to take traditional drinks if they enjoy the flavour or feel they help them relax, but they are not compulsory. The best approach is a balanced diet, hydration and feeding on demand.
Conclusion: Empowering mothers through facts, not fear
Breastfeeding is a powerful, instinctive and deeply personal experience. Myths thrive where support and accurate information are lacking. By understanding what is scientifically true and what is simply a cultural misconception, mothers can breastfeed with more confidence and less pressure. Every breastfeeding journey is unique, and the right guidance can make an enormous difference. When families embrace evidence-based knowledge, they not only support the mother but also ensure the best possible start for the baby.
If you are a new parent navigating breastfeeding advice from all directions, remember that your body is designed for this, your baby is learning with you and the right information matters more than traditional assumptions. To prepare yourself for the breastfeeding journey register for a Breastfeeding Class either in-person or online with Sonali Shivlani at Baby360degrees in the third trimester of Pregnancy today.
