Honey During Pregnancy Benefits and Side Effects, Mothers-to-be are especially wary about the things they consume but the downside to that is that they become paranoid when it comes to eatables like honey, papaya, grapes, eggs, pineapple. While some of them are indeed harmful during pregnancy, honey is not. Contrary to popular belief, this delicious, gooey indulgence is more than safe for pregnant women. Of course, it should be consumed in moderation and as a part of a balanced diet. Honey contains a wide variety of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and amino acids that aids in the baby’s development. Besides this, here’s a list of health benefits brought about by consuming this amber sweetener during pregnancy.

Benefits of Honey

1. Soothes cough naturally

Mothers-to-be may want to avoid strong medications or antibiotics for minor flu, cold or cough. Honey, with its anti-inflammatory action, can be a great natural remedy. Mix it with other natural ingredients like ginger or lemon and you have the perfect antidote for a stubborn cough. A cup of hot milk and a spoonful of honey is a miracle medicine for dry cough. It also reduces chest pain and eases dryness.

2. Eases heartburn

Hearburn and indigestion is common during pregnancy. It is caused by the growing uterus pressing onto the intestines and stomach. Honey mixed with a glass of warm milk works wonders for the mother-to-be and eases her discomfort.

3. Relieves Insomnia

Expectant mothers become discomfited as the pregnancy progresses and may also suffer from insomnia. Drinking milk mixed with a spoon of honey and a tablespoonful of turmeric before bedtime helps them have an undisturbed sleep.

4. Provides Antioxidants

Honey is a rich source of dietary antioxidants and flavonoids. Consumption of honey could help boost antioxidant levels in pregnant women and protect them from oxidative stress. The natural antioxidant boost can improve their well-being and also help in the development of the baby.

Ways to Use Honey

1. Milk and Honey

Mix a tablespoon of honey in a glass of warm milk and consume it before hitting the bed. This provides warmth and relaxation to the body.

2. Honey and warm water

Mix a tablespoon of honey in a glass of lukewarm water and consume it on an empty stomach, first thing in the morning. It expels toxin build up from the body.

3. A big spoonful

Keep it simple by taking a big spoonful of honey and consuming it directly. You’ll get all the nutritional benefits without the fuss of actually preparing anything.

Expert Tips

1. Make sure that you do not add honey in hot water or beverages as it eliminates its healthy enzymes. You may add it to lukewarm water.
2. Honey should also not be consumed with foods rich in vitamins C and D as the minerals present in honey will nullify the benefits of the vitamins. Honey During Pregnancy Benefits and Side Effects
3. Always invest in a good brand of honey to be safe.
4. Almost all brands sell pasteurized honey but double check it just to be sure.
5. Choose trusted, organic honey as it undergoes minimal processing.

Consult your doctor before including honey to your everyday diet.