Which of the following statements is true regarding baby blue syndrome?

Baby blue syndrome, also known as methemoglobinemia, is primarily caused by elevated levels of nitrates in drinking water. When infants consume water or formula containing high nitrate concentrations, their ability to transport oxygen can be impaired, leading to a bluish coloration of the skin due to decreased oxygen in the blood.

This condition arises because nitrates are converted to nitrites in the body, which then bind to hemoglobin, forming methemoglobin—a form of hemoglobin that does not effectively carry oxygen. As a result, the infant may experience difficulty in obtaining sufficient oxygen, which is particularly dangerous during the early months of life when their bodies are still developing.

High sodium levels, low iron levels, or the presence of harmful bacteria are not the primary causes of baby blue syndrome. Sodium issues are more related to other health concerns, while low iron would typically affect adults rather than infants in a direct manner concerning this syndrome. Bacterial contamination, while it can pose risks, is distinct from the nitrate-induced condition associated with baby blue syndrome. Understanding the specific linkage to nitrates is crucial for addressing safety in drinking water, especially for young children.