Degusta spoke with Dr. Elisabeth Canova to understand the risks of honey consumption by children
When it comes to baby food, questions always arise as to which foods are safe and suitable for the little ones. A recurring problem is the consumption of honey. To clarify this doubt, Degusta spoke with Dr. Elisabeth Canova FernandesGeneral pediatrician, owner of Growing pediatric clinic and Professor of Medicine at the University of São Caetano do Sul, who shared valuable information on the subject.
Now let’s see what are the risks of including honey in your child’s diet:
Infant botulism risk
As highlighted by Dr. Elisabeth, the main reason babies should not consume honey before 1 year of age is the risk of infant botulism. According to her, the honey could be contaminated by a bacterium called Clostridium botulinum, which produces the toxin responsible for this serious disease. Symptoms of botulism include “nausea, vomiting, headache, vision changes, fever, diarrhea, abdominal pain, progressive weakness of the legs and respiratory muscles to paralysis,” she explains.
Keep the neutral taste
After turning 1, the pediatrician points out that honey can be introduced into children’s diets, but with some caveats. She points out that the consumption of foods sweetened with honey is not indicated before the age of 2. The reason for this is to preserve the neutral palate of children by encouraging the acceptance of fresh fruits, vegetables, greens and salads. By avoiding the early introduction of sugars and honey, we contribute to a healthier and more balanced diet.
Use of honey in homemade cough syrups
An interesting point mentioned by Dr. Canova is that, starting at 1 year of age, honey can be used in homemade syrups to treat children’s coughs. However, it is essential to consult a doctor or pediatrician before administering any type of syrup, even those prepared at home. The correct dosage and safety of the mixture should be verified by a qualified professional.
Although honey is a delicious and natural food, its restriction for children is based on health and safety reasons. Furthermore, according to the Brazilian Society of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Pediatrics, honey is contraindicated in the first year of a child’s life. Avoid this food as much as possible and don’t forget to consult a doctor or pediatrician for specific indications on the correct nutrition of your baby, ensuring that it grows in a healthy and safe way.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
