WARNING: NO HONEY FOR BABIES!

Honey is  a great source of energy and also contains protein, vitamins and minerals.  The two types of sugar in it are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream and give the body a quick energy boost. It has less than 2% sodium (almost sodium-free) and has many medicinal properties. One of the most commonly known effects of honey is its antibacterial effect. It literally dehydrates the bacteria that causes the infection until it dies. In addition, enzymatic activities of honey contribute to honey's antibacterial properties too.

Normally, honey is a fabulous healthy, tasty, natural and wholesome food (It is also a part of our homemade remedies at home and I will be posting an entry on that in the near future). HOWEVER, honey is NOT SAFE for INFANTS and therefore should NOT be consumed prior to the age of one at all (many recommend to wait even until the age of two)! (This warning includes dipping pacifiers into the honey too! It is UNSAFE.)

Honey can contain spores of a bacterium called Clostridium botulinum, which can germinate in a baby's immature digestive system and cause infant botulism, a rare but potentially fatal illness.

These spores do not harm adults and older children as our developed digestive system prevents the bacteria from growing.

The symptoms of botulism include muscle weakness (a 'floppy baby'), constipation, slack jaw, sucking issues, crying, lethargy, drooling or swallowing difficulties and occasionally, respiratory arrest.

The baby foods should not contain honey but it is still worthwhile to check ingredients before you feed your precise baby any foods that you haven't cooked at home or aren't totally sure of the content. Don't forget, some baked breads and commercial foods may contain honey in them as well. Never take it for granted and double check if unsure.

Wishing all your babies a honey-free babyhood!