Is honey good for a cough while breastfeeding?

Is Honey Good for a Cough While Breastfeeding?
As the cold and flu season approaches, many breastfeeding mothers find themselves seeking safe and effective remedies for persistent coughs. One natural option that often comes to mind is honey. But is it truly beneficial, and is it safe for nursing mothers?
The Benefits of Honey for Cough Relief
Research indicates that honey can be an effective remedy for coughs. Studies have shown that honey may help soothe coughs in both adults and children over the age of one. It appears to reduce mucus secretion and alleviate coughing, making it a popular choice for those suffering from upper respiratory infections. Dr. Angela Mattke from the Mayo Clinic emphasizes that honey can indeed help calm coughs, although she cautions against giving honey to children under one year old due to the risk of botulism.
For breastfeeding mothers, consuming honey can provide relief without posing a direct risk to their infants. The InfantRisk Center notes that while honey does not suppress coughing, it is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers, with no reported adverse effects on infants. This makes honey a viable option for mothers looking to manage their coughs naturally.
Safety Considerations
While honey is safe for breastfeeding mothers, it is crucial to remember that infants under one year should not be given honey directly. The primary concern is the risk of infant botulism, a rare but serious illness caused by botulinum spores that can be present in honey. Therefore, while a mother can enjoy honey in her tea or as a sweetener, it should never be given to her baby.
Moreover, honey can be mixed with warm water or herbal teas to enhance its soothing properties, making it a comforting remedy for sore throats and coughs. This method not only helps alleviate symptoms but also provides hydration, which is essential during illness.
Conclusion
In summary, honey can be a beneficial and safe remedy for coughs in breastfeeding mothers. It offers a natural alternative to over-the-counter medications, which may not always be suitable for nursing women. However, mothers should always prioritize their infants’ safety by avoiding honey for babies under one year old. As always, if symptoms persist or worsen, consulting a healthcare professional is advisable to ensure both mother and baby remain healthy.

Will my breastfed baby catch my cough?

Summary. You can continue to breastfeed when you have a cough, cold, the flu or COVID-19. Your child will not catch the infection from your breastmilk. Your milk will contain antibodies to the infection, which may protect your child.

What can a breastfeeding mom take for a cough?

If you are feeling very unwell because of a cold, the flu or sinus problems, you should contact your doctor. For a dry cough, a cough suppressant such as pholcodine or dextromethorphan is considered safe while breastfeeding. A dry, irritating cough is usually associated with a postnasal drip.

What can I take to get rid of mucus while breastfeeding?

Saline nasal spray or a neti pot are great ways to help relieve congestion without drugs. Sterile saltwater works to break up nasal mucus. Drink up! Clear liquids, especially warm ones, like lemon water can help break up mucus and prevent dehydration.

How does honey affect a newborn baby?

Infant botulism is a rare but serious form of food poisoning that can affect babies up to a year old. In Canada, honey is the only food that has been linked to infant botulism. You can help reduce the risk of this disease by only feeding honey to healthy children over one year of age.

Can you pass a cough through breast milk?

Your child will not catch the infection from your breastmilk. Your milk will contain antibodies to the infection, which may protect your child. You can reduce the risk of passing the infection to your child though good hygiene and avoiding coughing or sneezing on them.

How do I stop my baby from coughing uncontrollable?

10 home remedies for your child’s cough

1. Drink lots of fluids. Encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids.
2. Consider using a humidifier.
3. Breathe in warm water vapors.
4. Try icy treats.
5. Saline and suction.
6. Give a spoonful of honey (over age 1)
7. Gargle with warm salt water.
8. Elevate your child’s head while sleeping (over age 2)

What cough drops to avoid while breastfeeding?

Most lozenges with menthol are safe for nursing moms because very little makes it into the milk supply. However, menthol is derived from peppermint oil, which may reduce milk supply in some women. It’s probably best to avoid consuming large amounts of peppermint or menthol cough drops.

Can I take honey for cough while breastfeeding?

Breastfed babies should be watched for sleepiness or poor feeding. Cough drops and honey are safe to use by moms for a cough. (Caution: Do not give honey to infants less than 1 year old).

How to stop baby coughing while breastfeeding?

Make sure your breasts are not engorged or over-full.
If your baby is pulling off and gagging or coughing during feeding, sit your baby up in a seated burp position. Gently pat your baby’s back to help your little one calm down before you continue feeding.

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.