Risk of Honey for Pregnant Women

Honey for pregnant women has a variety of health benefits, one of which helps boost the immune system. However, Bumil needs to pay close attention to several things before consuming them so that they are not dangerous. Honey contains glucose, fructose, water, and several other important nutrients needed by the body, such as protein, vitamins B2, B3, B6, B9 (folic acid), vitamin C, magnesium, zinc, iron, phosphorus, potassium, and calcium . The content is believed to be able to heal wounds, infections, skin problems, digestive disorders, and diabetes.

Is There a Negative Side to Consuming Honey for Pregnant Women?

Consumption of honey is not recommended for babies under 1 year, because the content of the bacterium Clostridium botulinum in it can cause botulism. But in pregnant women, consuming honey will not make the fetus in the womb experience botulism. The bacteria that cause botulism cannot develop in the digestive tract of healthy pregnant women. In addition, botulism can also not enter and pass through the placenta of pregnant women. In pregnant women, honey consumption can actually prevent coughs and colds, relieve sore throats, and overcome insomnia. However, choose honey that has gone through the process of pasteurization. Pregnant women can consume honey by drinking it directly or mixing it into warm tea.

Things to Look For When Pregnant Women Eat Honey

In addition to choosing honey that has gone through the pasteurization process, Bumil should pay attention to the following things when wanting to consume honey:

Consumption in limited quantities

Although pregnant women can consume honey, avoid over-consuming it, especially if pregnant women suffer from gestational diabetes. This is because the fructose contained in honey can increase blood sugar levels. So, always pay attention to pregnant woman's health condition and the amount of honey consumed during pregnancy, yes!

Be careful in choosing honey

Pregnant women should choose honey with pure content and without added sweeteners. In addition, choose honey that has been registered with BPOM and also pay attention to the expiration date listed on the packaging label.

Beware of allergic reactions

Some pregnant women can experience allergic reactions, such as sneezing, watery eyes, itching, redness, and swelling of the skin, after consuming honey. If pregnant women experience these complaints, stop eating honey immediately and do a doctor's examination, yes. Some of the things explained above need to know pregnant women before consuming honey. If pregnant women have certain health conditions or are still hesitant to consume honey, it is advisable to consult an obstetrician, so that consumption of honey during pregnancy can be safer.