Is Manuka Honey Safe for Pregnant Women?

• Manuka Honey: Is it Safe for Pregnant Women?

• How Much Manuka Honey is Safe for Pregnant Women?

• Benefits of Manuka Honey During Pregnancy

• Cases Where Manuka Honey is Not Recommended During Pregnancy

• Potential Risks of Consuming Excessive Manuka Honey During Pregnancy

Manuka Honey: Is it Safe for Pregnant Women?

The short answer is, yes. There are several foods you need to avoid when pregnant but Manuka honey is not one of them. The digestive system of adult women is equipped to absorb natural honey and convert it into energy.

However, since pregnancy can be different for different women and their individual health may also vary, it is always a good idea to consume Manuka honey in moderation and after consulting your doctor.

Manuka honey contains flavonoids and prebiotics that protect your body from oxidative stress and create a healthy gut microbiome which makes it a great addition to the diet of pregnant women.

Moreover, this honey is also rich in natural sugars like glucose and fructose that give you a quick energy boost and provide vitality during this crucial period.

This honey’s potent healing properties and calming effects combined with its delightful caramel-like taste promotes wellness and comfort thus making your pregnancy less stressful and uncomplicated.

How Much Manuka Honey is Safe for Pregnant Women?

Moderation is key when it comes to consuming Manuka honey especially when you are pregnant. Experts recommend 1-2 teaspoons or about 10 grams of Manuka honey per day.

You can also ditch refined sugar altogether and use Manuka honey in its place to manage your weight and promote wellness. It is always a good idea to go for UMF 15+ Manuka honey as it contains maximum nutrients and has potent therapeutic effects.

Benefits of Manuka Honey During Pregnancy

There are so many benefits of having Manuka honey during pregnancy and this next section lists some main ones to give you an idea.

1. Enhances Immunity

Manuka honey contains antioxidants like phenolic acids and flavonoids, essential vitamins, and minerals that work together to enhance your immunity. These components impart superior antibacterial and antimicrobial properties to Manuka honey that support your immunity during this period.
  

2. Soothes Coughing and Sore Throat

If you develop sore throat and coughing during pregnancy, you can use Manuka honey to reduce the symptoms. Most over the counter medications are restricted during pregnancy and that makes it hard for you to combat seasonal allergies. But with Manuka honey, you can easily treat sore throat and coughing without any side effects.

3. Treats Nauseas and Vomiting

Morning sickness, vomiting, or nausea are common during pregnancy. Manuka organic honey has soothing effects and it is digested easily by your stomach. This honey stabilizes your digestive system and relieves nausea. Pregnant women can have it in the morning on an empty stomach to get the best results.

4. Relieves Labor Pains

Honey’s soothing effects relieve cramps and contractions during the final stages of pregnancy. Its regular use reduces inflammation and promotes quicker postpartum recovery.

5. Supports Digestive Health

Manuka honey contains prebiotics that soothe indigestion, treat acid reflux, and prevent bloating. Its natural laxative properties ensure your entire digestive system keeps functioning smoothly which further enhances comfort.

6. Gives You a Natural Energy Boost

Honey contains natural sugars like glucose and fructose that quickly break down and convert into energy. It is also rich in calories, proteins, and vitamins that ensure you stay fueled throughout your pregnancy period.

7. Promotes Better Sleep

Pregnanct women face general discomfort, frequent urination, heartburns, and random pains that prevent them from getting a quality sleep. Manuka honey contains anxiolytic properties due to the presence of chrysin and gallic acid. These components reduce stress which allows you to get a good night’s sleep.

8. Supports Fetal Growth 

Manuka honey contains Folic acid which is a key component for the development of the nervous system of the fetus. This component also promotes brain development, facilitates blood cell formation, and reduces risks of birth defects in newborns. This way it ensures both the mother and child stay nourished during this critical time.

Cases Where Manuka Honey is Not Recommended During Pregnancy

Manuka honey is generally safe for pregnant women. In fact, its regular use is encouraged as it gives you good nutrition during pregnancy. However, there are some instances, where you need to either avoid or be very careful about your Manuka honey intake.

Here are some cases where this honey is not recommended to pregnant women.

• They Have Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes is high blood sugar that some women develop during pregnancy usually in the second or third trimester. It usually disappears after giving birth.

Since honey is rich in glucose and fructose, having it during pregnancy can raise your blood sugar levels even further leading to several complications. This is why if you have been diagnosed with gestational diabetes, it is better to limit your Manuka honey intake.

  They are Allergic to Bee Products

If you are allergic to bee pollen, bees, or honey, you need to avoid consuming Manuka honey during pregnancy. Not paying attention can trigger allergic reactions that range from skin rashes to throat congestion. 

• The Honey’s Source is Questionable

If your honey is locally produced and it is not certified or medical-grade, chances are it is unpasteurized and contains harmful bacteria or spores. Pregnant women need to go with brands that sell the best raw honey in the world to make sure they get maximum nutrition without any side effects. 

 They Have Digestive Problems

Manuka honey has a high fructose content that can worsen the symptoms of your IBS, chronic inflammation, and other intestinal disorders. So, if you suffer from these digestive issues, it is better to not use this honey.  

• They Suffer from Low Blood Pressure

Manuka honey has blood pressure lowering effects and if you suffer from low blood pressure, you need to avoid this honey during pregnancy.

Potential Risks of Consuming Excessive Manuka Honey During Pregnancy 

There are very few risks associated with consuming Manuka honey during pregnancy. The following are some notable ones that you should know.

• Consuming too much Manuka honey can lead to weight gain and blood sugar issues.

• It can enhance the risks of insulin resistance and metabolic disorders.

• Consuming Manuka honey in excess can cause bloating, gas, and other digestive problems.

• It can cause fatigue and sugar crashes.

• It can lead to poor oral health including the risks of tooth decay and gum diseases.

Conclusion

When consumed in moderation, Manuka honey is generally safe and even beneficial for pregnant women. However, before adding it to your diet, you need to determine if it is safe for you or not. If you have allergies, gestational diabetes, or digestive issues, it is better to not use this honey.

Pregnant women can add this honey to their diet and benefit from its countless therapeutic effects. It can promote better sleep, give you an energy boost, treat nausea, and reduce cramps. This way, it can make your pregnancy bearable, stress-free, and overall safe.

Just make sure to source your Manuka honey from a reputable supplier that promises 100% purity and authenticity to reap maximum benefits. 

Visit us at GEOHONEY today to explore the best pure monofloral honey varieties to stay healthy and nourished during your pregnancy without any side effects.