Can breastfeeding mothers eat manuka honey?

Can Breastfeeding Mothers Eat Manuka Honey?
Breastfeeding is a time of careful dietary consideration for new mothers, as they often seek to ensure both their health and the well-being of their infants. One common question that arises is whether it is safe for breastfeeding mothers to consume manuka honey. The good news is that the consensus among experts is that breastfeeding mothers can safely enjoy manuka honey.
Understanding Manuka Honey
Manuka honey, derived from the nectar of the manuka tree native to New Zealand and Australia, is renowned for its unique properties and health benefits. It is often touted for its antibacterial qualities and is used in various home remedies. Unlike regular honey, manuka honey has a higher concentration of methylglyoxal (MGO), which contributes to its medicinal properties.
Safety for Breastfeeding Mothers
According to health experts, consuming honey, including manuka honey, is generally safe for breastfeeding mothers. The primary concern with honey consumption revolves around the risk of infant botulism, a rare but serious illness caused by the bacteria *Clostridium botulinum*. This bacteria can be found in honey and poses a risk to infants under one year of age. However, the adult digestive system can handle these bacteria without issue, making it safe for mothers to consume honey while breastfeeding .
Moreover, the spores that cause botulism are too large to pass into breast milk, which further alleviates concerns about the safety of honey consumption during lactation. Experts emphasize that while mothers can enjoy honey, they should avoid giving honey directly to their infants until they are at least one year old.
Nutritional Benefits
In addition to being safe, manuka honey offers several potential health benefits for breastfeeding mothers. Its antibacterial properties can support the immune system, which is particularly beneficial during the postpartum period when mothers may be more susceptible to infections. Furthermore, manuka honey can be a natural sweetener, providing a healthier alternative to refined sugars.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers can confidently include manuka honey in their diets. Not only is it safe, but it may also provide additional health benefits. As always, moderation is key, and mothers should ensure that their overall diet remains balanced and nutritious. Enjoying manuka honey can be a delightful way to enhance both flavor and health during this special time.

Can honey be passed through breast milk?

Although the bacterial spores that cause infant botulism are known to occasionally be present in honey, even if a mother was to eat botulism spores in honey, the spores are far too large to pass through her body and into breast milk. Also, botulinum toxin does not pass into breast milk.

Is manuka honey safe when breastfeeding?

Safety of Honey While Breastfeeding
“Your body will digest and break down honey (and any spores it’s contaminated with), so it won’t pass in your breast milk to your baby,” say Jessica Madden, MD, pediatrician, neonatologist, IBCLC, and medical director at Aeroflow Breastpumps.

Does Manuka honey increase fertility?

Antioxidants are found organically in Manuka honey and research has found it to improve fertility in both males and females.

Is Manuka honey pasteurized or unpasteurized?

Authentic Raw Manuka Honey is sourced from the nectar of the Manuka flower in New Zealand’s pristine forests. Comvita Manuka Honey is raw, wild, unpasteurized, Non-GMO Project Certified, halal, kosher, and certified gluten-free and glyphosate residue-free.

What should a breastfeeding mother avoid eating?

Caffeine. It’s not just tea and coffee that contains caffeine – it’s in chocolate, and various energy drinks and soft drinks. It’s sensible to cut caffeine out while breastfeeding because it’s a stimulant so can make your baby restless. If you do drink caffeine, try not to have more than 300mg a day.

When should you not use Manuka honey?

Manuka honey is not suitable for infants, people with blood-sugar control disorders, and those with a honey allergy. As it’s high in natural sugars, people who need to monitor their blood sugar levels should consume it in moderation, or should consult a healthcare professional first.

Is manuka honey good for you when pregnant?

Manuka Honey is a Great Addition to Your Pregnancy Diet
Honey, including Manuka honey, is a safe and beneficial addition to a pregnancy diet, especially when consumed in moderation. The natural nutrients, such as antioxidants and prebiotics, support general wellness, while its delicious taste makes it a yummy snack!

Is manuka honey safe for babies?

Manuka honey is safe for most healthy children over one year old. Infants younger than one are at risk of infant botulism, a rare but serious condition caused by naturally-occuring bacteria that their digestive systems are not developed enough to process safely.

Who Cannot take Manuka honey?

Manuka honey is generally safe to use or consume, but some people may have an adverse reaction, such as an allergic reaction or high blood sugar. According to Shapiro, people who should avoid manuka honey include those with: Allergy to bees or honey. Elevated blood sugar levels.

Is honey good for a lactating mother?

Instead, consume whole foods and when you do want a little sweetness, opt for honey or 100% pure maple syrup. A note on honey. You can eat honey when breastfeeding, although your young baby (under the age of 12 months) can’t – as it poses a risk of botulism.