A Guide for Moms-to-Be: Is Honey Safe During Pregnancy?

It's almost unreal hearing all the advice (solicited but mostly unsolicited) and the ever-growing list of 'dos and don'ts' when you're pregnant.  

So, when you hear that honey is a no-go for babies, it's completely natural to pause when you reach for your ritual morning golden boost to wonder: Can pregnant women have honey?

It's a valid concern, surrounded by a lot of confusing information. 

Let's take a closer look at what is fact or fiction regarding pregnant women and eating honey.  

In a Nutshell: Can You Have Honey While Pregnant? 

• Yes, it's safe! Honey is considered safe for pregnant women.

• Your gut protects you. An adult's mature digestive system prevents the growth of botulism spores.

• The baby is protected. The botulism toxin cannot cross the placenta to reach your baby.

Is Honey Safe During Pregnancy or Not?

The main concern around eating honey during pregnancy is a bacterium called Clostridium botulinum. It can cause a rare but serious illness, infant botulism.

For babies under 12 months, these spores are a genuine risk. 

A baby's digestive system is still developing and isn't mature enough to handle these bacterial spores. Then, in their gut, the spores grow and produce toxins.

However, a healthy adult's digestive system is much more robust. The mature gut microbiota in adults prevents these spores from growing and causing harm. The bacteria simply pass through your system without any issues. 

Crucially, the botulinum toxin is too large to cross the placenta, meaning it does not pose a risk to your developing baby.

So, while the "no honey for babies" rule is vital, the answer to "Is honey safe during pregnancy?" is a confident yes for the mother.

Importantly!

If you have any pre-existing gut issues, gestational diabetes, or immune disorders, or if your medical professional advised otherwise, it might be best not to eat honey. Especially during pregnancy, always consult your medical professional if you're concerned about anything.

Can Pregnant Women Eat All Types of Honey?

Another common question is about the type of honey. Is there a difference between raw and pasteurized honey during pregnancy?

Pasteurized Honey

This honey has been heated to kill yeast and prevent fermentation. The process doesn't necessarily make it "safer" regarding botulism for adults, as the adult digestive system already handles the spores. 

Pasteurization also doesn’t effectively kill botulism spores. So, it’s still not safe to give to your baby. 

Raw Honey

This is honey in its natural state. It hasn't been heated or heavily processed, meaning it retains more of its natural enzymes and pollen. Many people prefer raw honey during pregnancy for its robust flavour and natural properties.

For pregnant women, both pasteurized and high-quality, properly sourced raw honey is considered safe. 

The key is choosing a product you can trust.

 Check out our natural, raw Boreal Forest honey collection.

What Are the Benefits of Honey During Pregnancy?

Beyond being a safe sweetener, honey certainly has its potential perks for pregnant women.

• A Natural Cough Suppressant. A sore throat or cough is such a nuisance during pregnancy when many over-the-counter medicines are off-limits. A spoonful of honey in warm water with lemon is a comforting and effective remedy.

• A Healthier Sweetener. Honey can be a wholesome way to satisfy sweet cravings, offering trace vitamins and minerals not found in refined white sugar.

• A Source of Antioxidants. High-quality honey contains antioxidants, which help protect your body's cells from damage.

How To Enjoy Honey During Pregnancy?

Now that you know honey is a safe option, here are a few simple and comforting recipes to enjoy it.

• Soothing Teas and Lattes. A spoonful of honey can turn a simple cup of hot water with lemon and ginger into a soothing drink for an upset stomach or sore throat. It's also a wonderful natural sweetener for a calming, caffeine-free turmeric latte before bed.

• A Wholesome Breakfast Drizzle. Add a touch of sweetness to your morning by drizzling honey over Greek yogurt, a bowl of oatmeal, or a fresh fruit parfait.

• Natural Energy for Smoothies. Blend a small amount of honey into your favourite fruit and vegetable smoothie for a natural energy boost without relying on refined sugars.

• Homemade Salad Dressings. Whisk honey with olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt for a simple and delicious vinaigrette that brightens up any salad.

Choosing Quality Honey for Peace of Mind

While honey is safe, choosing a high-quality, pure product is always good practice. Knowing where your food comes from provides an extra layer of confidence.

Honey that is pure, raw, and comes from a single, trusted source ensures you are getting precisely what the label says; nothing more, nothing less. This commitment to purity means you can enjoy its natural sweetness without wondering about hidden additives.

The journey to motherhood should be filled with peace of mind, not worry. Knowing you can safely enjoy a sweet spoonful of honey is one small way to make the experience a little more pleasant.

Explore our collection of raw Canadian honey from the Boreal Forest.

Disclaimer: We love sharing our passion for wellness and nature's goodness. Please remember, the content on our blog is for general informational purposes. It should not be taken as medical advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.