Is Manuka Honey Safe During Pregnancy? Discover the Benefits and Myths!
So, Is Manuka Honey Useful During Pregnancy?
The answer to this question is YES, and here's why.
Pregnancy is a wonderful time in a woman's life when she is not only mindful of her own health but also very conscious about her unborn child's wellbeing. Every pregnant woman does her due diligence in her personal capacity to find out what is the best diet for herself and her child. For example, it is generally known to the pregnant women to not to consume soft cheeses, undercooked meat, raw fish and unpasteurized milk during this time.
One such natural product that is talk of the medical world these days is Manuka honey, known for its unique antibacterial properties and rich nutritional profile. It has become a popular choice for those seeking natural wellness supplements. But when it comes to pregnancy, safety is always a primary concern. The questions arise: Is Manuka honey safe during pregnancy? Can we consume Manuka honey during pregnancy? In this article, we’ll explore the benefits, safety concerns, and how Manuka honey can be incorporated into a pregnancy diet.
Recommendations from Healthcare Providers
Most healthcare providers recommend not introducing honey to infants before the age of one year due to the risk of botulism from bacterial spores called clostridium botulinum. This leads to concerns about whether Manuka honey is safe during pregnancy. Fortunately, consuming Manuka honey while pregnant is generally considered safe because the mother’s immune system is strong enough to fight off these bacteria, preventing them from harming the baby.
According to the National Health Services (NHS) in the UK, Manuka honey is safe during pregnancy. Similarly, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not specifically advise against it.
What is Manuka Honey?
Manuka honey is a special type of honey native to Australia. It is extracted by the bees that pollinate the Manuka bush which is found in the pristine Australian bush. Chemical composition of Manuka honey shows high concentration of methylglyoxal (MGO), a compound that is known in the medical sectors for its powerful antibacterial properties. Higher grades of Manuka honey exhibit the higher levels of antibacterial strength and stronger remedial effects.
MGO Ratings Explained
Manuka honey comes in a variety of MGO grades, and the MGO content determines its strength and potential benefits. Popular grades include:
- Manuka Honey MGO 850: This strength is perfect for gut health, immunity, and general wellness and provides moderate antibacterial properties. This could be ideal for pregnant women seeking to enjoy the benefits of Manuka honey without excessive potency.
- Manuka Honey MGO 1200: A stronger grade of Manuka honey, suitable for those looking for more powerful antibacterial properties. However, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before consuming high-strength Manuka honey, especially during pregnancy.
- Manuka Honey 1500 MGO: This ultra-potent grade is best used for specific health concerns and should only be consumed under medical advice, particularly during pregnancy.
Why Choose Manuka Honey?
Manuka honey isn’t just safe during pregnancy; it’s also incredibly beneficial. Here’s why:
- 100% pure Manuka Honey
- Rich in essential nutrients needed during pregnancy:
- Iron
- Zinc
- Potassium
- Phosphorus
- Vitamin B
3. No side effects when consumed in moderation
Considerations for Consuming Manuka Honey During Pregnancy
Moderation is Key
It is a commonly known that excess of anything is bad and it applies to Manuka honey as well. Although Manuka honey has unmatched health benefits, it is important to consume it in moderation. Excessive intake of any type of honey could lead to weight gain or raise blood sugar levels, particularly for pregnant women managing gestational diabetes. A teaspoon or two per day is typically safe, but always consult with your doctor to be even safer.
Quality Matters
Not all Manuka honey is created equal. To ensure safety and harvest the best health benefits, always choose high-quality, raw, and certified Manuka honey with a reputable MGO rating. To serve only the topmost quality products, we at Sunhighlands have some of the best bundle offers for you to guarantee the purity and potency of the honey you consume.
Classic Bundle Offer - 2 Jars MGO 850+
Prime Bundle Offer - 3 Jars MGO 850+
Premium Bundle Offer - 5 Jars MGO 850+
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Classic Bundle Offer - 2 Jars MGO 1200+
Prime Bundle Offer - 3 Jars MGO 1200+
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Classic Bundle Offer - 2 Jars MGO 1500+
Prime Bundle Offer - 3 Jars MGO 1500+
Each of these grades whether part of a Classic Bundle Offer or Prime Bundle Offer provide different strengths. However, for general pregnancy wellness, lower to moderate MGO grades are often sufficient.
Manuka Honey and Pregnancy: Is it Safe
You must have heard that honey shouldn't be given to children below the age of one. Naturally one would ask if it is safe to use for pregnant women and their unborn child. Medically speaking, Manuka honey or any ordinary honey is considered safe for pregnant women. An adult pregnant woman's immune and digestive systems are fully developed as compared to infants, so they can neutralize harmful effects, if any, found in the honey.
However, it’s essential to note that while Manuka honey is safe for pregnant women, it should be consumed in moderation. Like other types of honey, Manuka honey contains natural sugars, which can affect blood sugar levels, particularly in those with conditions like gestational diabetes. Therefore, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before adding it to your pregnancy diet.
How to Enjoy Manuka Honey During Pregnancy
Manuka honey can be enjoyed in various ways during pregnancy:
- Take directly: A spoonful of Manuka honey can be a delicious and energizing treat.
- In tea: Add a teaspoon of Manuka honey to a cup of warm tea or water for a soothing, sweet drink.
- In smoothies: Blend Manuka honey into smoothies for added sweetness and nutrition.
As a spread: Use it as a topping on toast or pancakes for a natural, flavorful boost.
Consuming Pure and Natural Manuka Honey
The quality of Manuka honey is determined by the levels of methylglyoxal (MGO), a compound responsible for its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. The higher the MGO level, the stronger the antibacterial effects.
Benefits of Manuka Honey During Pregnancy
Manuka honey’s unique compound, methylglyoxal (MGO), releases hydrogen peroxide, making it effective against bacteria and microbes. Here are some benefits:
Boosting the Immune System
The antibacterial properties of Manuka honey protect against diseases and infections, which is crucial during pregnancy when the immune system is often weaker.
Sore Throat Relief
Manuka honey’s viscosity provides a soothing layer around the throat, alleviating irritation and coughing. A mix of Manuka honey with ginger tea or green tea can be particularly effective.
Digestive Health and Ulcer Healing
Manuka honey can help with gastric discomfort and heartburn, common during pregnancy. Regular use may also combat helicobacter pylori bacteria, which cause duodenal ulcers.
Energy Boost
Rich in vitamins and minerals, Manuka honey provides an excellent source of energy for pregnant women.
Stretch Mark Management
Applying Manuka honey cream can help reduce irritation and itching from stretching skin, potentially preventing stretch marks.
Maintaining Healthy Skin
Regular use keeps the skin hydrated and glowing.
Promoting Peaceful Sleep
Manuka honey contains chrysin and gallic acid, which help reduce stress and promote better sleep.
Circumstances When Manuka Honey Should Be Avoided
Crohn’s Disease
Pregnant women with Crohn’s disease are more susceptible to bacterial infections, including botulism.
Contamination
While rare, there’s a small risk of contamination. Pregnant women should take precautions to ensure their Manuka honey is pure and uncontaminated.
Gestational Diabetes
Monitor sugar levels and consume Manuka honey in moderation to avoid the risk of gestational diabetes.
Conclusion
Manuka honey is not only safe during pregnancy but also highly beneficial. It boosts the immune system, provides energy, improves sleep quality, soothes sore throats, enhances digestive health, and keeps the skin hydrated. It’s a rich source of essential vitamins and minerals needed for the development of the fetus, making it a great addition to a pregnant mother’s diet.
Manuka honey is generally safe for pregnant women when consumed in moderation. With its natural antibacterial properties, antioxidants, and prebiotics, Manuka honey can offer a wide range of health benefits during pregnancy. However, it’s important to choose the right MGO grade and it is always better to be safe than sorry, so consult with a healthcare provider to ensure it’s a safe addition to your diet.
FAQs
1. How much Manuka honey can a pregnant mother consume daily?
One spoonful of Manuka honey is safe for pregnant women on a daily basis.
2. Can infants have Manuka honey?
It is advisable not to give Manuka honey to infants before the age of one to eliminate the risk of infant botulism.
3. Can the spores of clostridium botulinum pass through the placenta?
No, the immune system of pregnant women is strong enough to kill the spores of clostridium botulinum, preventing their entry into the bloodstream and the placenta.
