Can you have honey while pregnant?

Most people know that babies under the age of one cannot have honey. But is it safe to eat honey while you are pregnant? Is it safe to consume raw honey while pregnant? In this blog you will learn about the food safety of honey and its benefits.

The reason that honey is not safe for babies to eat is because it can contain bacteria that can lead to botulism which is an illness that attacks the body’s nervous system and is very dangerous to a baby’s small body and underdeveloped immune system. This is very unlikely to happen in an adult’s body which protects the fetus. The bacteria is also not known to cross the placenta.

Raw Honey

Raw honey means that the honey is not pasteurized. It is taken straight from the honeycomb and put into a jar or bottle. The type of honey contains It does not have any foodborne pathogens such as salmonella, e.coli, and listeria. Raw honey is preferred to eat in pregnancy and any other time if you are wanting to consume the antioxidants and extra vitamins and minerals.

Pasteurized Honey

Honey that is pasteurized goes through a process that destroys the natural occurring yeast and other bacteria. The consequence of this process removes some of its nutritional components, vitamins and minerals. Pasteurization makes honey smoother and clearer and also reduces the risk of botulism spores. Pasteurized honey is safe to eat while pregnant.

Benefits of Honey

• Helps boost antioxidant activity

• Lowers inflammation in the body

• Acts as an antibacterial agent

• Helps treat coughs

• Promotes wound healing

• Helps relieve digestive issues

• Quick energy boost

When To Not Eat Honey During Pregnancy

Women who are diabetic or diagnosed with gestational diabetes should only have small amounts of honey every once in a while because it does raise a persons blood sugar levels. Acid reflux and indigestion is common in pregnancy and sometimes the consumption of honey can worsen these symptoms.

The bottom line is that honey is absolutely safe to eat while you are pregnant. There are many benefits to eating honey for all people.