As mothers become increasingly concerned about their nutrition during breastfeeding, honey has emerged as a natural option, raising questions about its effectiveness and benefits for breastfeeding mothers. Much has been said about honey's nutritional richness and its diverse uses, passed down through cultures in cooking and healthcare, prompting mothers to seek accurate and reliable answers about the benefits of honey for breastfeeding mothers and whether it truly benefits breastfeeding mothers in supporting their health and that of their babies.
This article by Fahad Al-Qanun on natural honey production covers the reader's most important information about honey and breastfeeding: from the truth about honey's effect on increasing breast milk and supporting the mother's immune system, to a review of recent medical evidence on its safety and guidelines for consumption during breastfeeding.
You'll also find myth-busting advice and practical tips based on the latest research, addressing the most frequently asked questions among mothers in the Arab world about using honey while breastfeeding.
Is honey good for breastfeeding?
Honey contains natural sugars such as glucose and fructose, making it a quick source of energy for breastfeeding mothers who suffer from fatigue and exhaustion after giving birth. Eating honey can give you an energetic boost that helps you face the demands of caring for your baby and daily activities, as it is a nutritious option that significantly improves energy levels, especially in the early stages after giving birth. According to the specialized guide .
Honey also contains phenolic and flavonoid compounds with powerful antioxidant effects, which play a role in boosting immunity and protecting the body from oxidative stress, which is crucial for pregnant and breastfeeding women. Historically, it has been used as a natural remedy for postpartum problems, thanks to its antimicrobial properties, which have made it part of the recovery routine in many cultures. Medical-grade honey is a proven treatment for cracked nipples in breastfeeding mothers, as it has been shown to be effective. Clinical research shows that it is a safe topical treatment that is comparable to other options in terms of results and superior to them in terms of the absence of side effects.
What is the effect of honey on increasing natural milk?
To date, there is no solid scientific evidence that consuming honey alone increases milk production in breastfeeding mothers. No official recommendations have been issued by accredited medical bodies supporting the use of honey for this purpose. This is due to the lack of clear research findings proving its effectiveness in stimulating or improving milk production, specifically in breastfeeding mothers. Furthermore, it is worth noting that giving honey to infants is associated with specific risks, particularly infant botulism. Data indicate that the rate of infant botulism from honey is one case per 97,000 births annually when honey is fed to infants. This makes the safe use of honey limited to mothers only, not infants under one year of age, as the recommendations emphasize. Health authorities .
What is the role of honey with fenugreek?
The results of a 2022 study showed that using honey in conjunction with fenugreek resulted in a statistically significant improvement in the breastfeeding success scale compared to fenugreek alone. No complications associated with this combination were recorded during the study. The importance of this combination lies in its complementarity, as honey is considered a complement to fenugreek, not a substitute, in supporting lactation. However, further studies are needed to definitively prove the effectiveness of this combination.
What are the most prominent alternatives being considered?
- Increased breastfeeding or regular pumping has been medically proven to be the best way to increase milk supply.
- Medicinal herbs such as fenugreek are scientifically studied and widely used to support lactation.
- Some medications are available that use different pharmacological mechanisms and should be taken under the supervision of a specialist.
- It has not yet been scientifically proven that using honey alone as an effective alternative to increasing milk production.
- The risks associated with honey are related exclusively to when it is given to infants, not to mothers.
What are the health benefits of honey for breastfeeding women?
How does it support immunity?
The plant compounds in honey, such as phenols and flavonoids, give it a powerful immune-boosting ability. The natural antioxidants in honey help strengthen a breastfeeding mother's immune system, enabling her to better resist infection and recover more quickly during the breastfeeding period.
Does it reduce fatigue?
Honey provides a type of simple sugar that is quickly absorbed by the body, helping to instantly boost energy levels and reduce fatigue, a common complaint among new mothers after childbirth. Statistics show that postpartum fatigue is one of the most common symptoms experienced by mothers, so relying on natural energy sources like honey can have a positive and tangible effect.
Does it treat cracked nipples?
Topical application of honey is a natural option when experiencing cracked nipples or skin ulcers resulting from frequent breastfeeding. One clinical study showed its effectiveness in treating these skin problems in a manner similar to that of traditional medications, with a high safety rate and no significant side effects in breastfeeding women who used it, as stated in Recent clinical report .
Does it relieve cough and sore throat?
Honey has been used since ancient times as a cough suppressant and a treatment for sore throats, thanks to its antibacterial and tissue-soothing properties. It's a safer option for breastfeeding mothers than prescription cough medicines, which may not be suitable for breastfeeding.
What are the risks or warnings associated with honey for breastfeeding women?
Can poisoning be transmitted to infants?
There is a common concern about the transmission of Clostridium botulinum spores from honey, which cause botulism, through a nursing mother's milk to her infant. However, medical sources confirm that this fear is scientifically unfounded. An adult woman's digestive system is capable of completely destroying these spores, and therefore they cannot be transmitted to the infant through milk under any circumstances, as explained by Modern medical recommendations . Experts explain that infants under one year of age should be cautious about consuming honey directly, and not about consuming it through breastfeeding mothers.
Can it cause an allergy?
Some types of honey may cause allergies in some breastfeeding mothers, often due to traces of pollen or artificial additives mixed into it during manufacturing. Therefore, it's best to test a small amount first and monitor for any adverse reactions, making sure to choose a reliable type that's free of any additives or processing.
How does overeating affect you?
Excessive honey consumption can lead to weight gain or blood sugar disturbances if consumed in large quantities, so it is recommended to consume it in moderation and count its calories as part of a breastfeeding mother's daily diet.
How do you choose honey that is safe for breastfeeding?
What are the specifications of pure honey?
- Pure honey should be natural and unpasteurized, meaning it has not been subjected to extreme heating that would cause it to lose many of its vital properties.
- It is extracted from reliable sources such as local beehives or well-known suppliers and is preferably labeled organic to ensure its purity and freedom from chemicals.
- Pure honey is free of any preservatives or artificial additives, and is often characterized by its thick consistency and distinctive natural aroma.
- Its color and flavor may vary depending on the type of flowers and pastures the bees feed on, which is a natural sign and not evidence of adulteration.
What are the best ways to use it?
- You can add pure honey to warm tea to benefit from its properties. It is preferable to use Shaflah honey from Fahd Al-Qanun. Because of its light and unique flavor.
- Mixing Fahad Al-Qanun's Hail Talh honey with yogurt is an ideal choice for a snack that provides sustained energy thanks to its rich composition.
- Fahad Al-Qanun's honey products can be used as a natural alternative to sweetening everyday desserts. They maintain nutritional balance and add an authentic flavor without adding artificial sugars.
By following these methods, you will ensure that you get the maximum benefits of honey for breastfeeding mothers while maintaining nutritional safety for you and your baby.
What are the best natural ways to increase milk production?
Following a balanced diet is one of the most important foundations for supporting milk production in breastfeeding women. Health organizations emphasize the importance of consuming meals containing adequate amounts of protein, iron, and calcium. These food sources include dairy products, eggs, and leafy greens, rich in essential nutrients. This ensures good nutrition for the mother and enhances the quality and natural supply of milk. According to the recommendations of nutrition bodies .
How effective is frequent breastfeeding?
Relying on frequent breastfeeding or continuous pumping is the cornerstone of increasing milk production. This is based on the principle of supply and demand, whereby repeated emptying of the breast stimulates the body to automatically produce more. According to medical reports, this procedure is more effective than any type of nutritional supplement or herb, as it reflects the mother's body's direct physiological response to satisfying the infant's needs.
What are the plant-based alternatives and supplements?
- Fenugreek is one of the most popular supportive plants, but its effectiveness is still under research and caution is advised when using it.
- Oats are sometimes listed as a food supplement, although evidence about their effect on milk is limited.
- Fortified milk provides a nutritious source of calcium and protein, which are essential for breastfeeding mothers.
- Some medications, such as domperidone, may be prescribed by a doctor to stimulate milk production, but their use should be under close medical supervision.
All of these alternatives and supplements should be approached with caution, as most lack strong evidence to support their effectiveness. Frequent breastfeeding or pumping remains the most reliable method for increasing breast milk supply.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is honey allowed for breastfeeding mothers?
Honey is a natural food that is permissible for breastfeeding mothers. It can be included in the daily diet without risk, as long as it is consumed in moderation and is part of a balanced diet rich in other nutrients.
Does honey affect the infant?
Consuming honey by a breastfeeding mother does not pose any harm to the infant, and the risk of toxicity is not transmitted to the infant through the milk. The mother's digestive system breaks down harmful spores, and honey in its original concentration is not transferred to the infant during breastfeeding. The risk of toxicity is only associated with giving honey directly to infants, not via breast milk.
Does honey cause colic in infants?
Giving honey or even sugar directly to an infant under one year of age can cause colic and digestive problems due to the infant's incomplete digestive enzymes. However, mothers consuming honey through breastfeeding do not cause colic or digestive problems for their infants.
What are healthy foods for a breastfeeding mother?
A breastfeeding mother needs a variety of food sources to maintain her health and that of her baby. Healthy foods should provide the mother with the proteins, vitamins, and minerals essential to meet her body's needs during breastfeeding.
- Protein-rich foods such as meat and eggs help build and renew body tissue.
- Milk and dairy products are an important source of calcium, which is essential for healthy bones and teeth.
- Leafy vegetables and fresh fruits provide the body with various vitamins and minerals that boost immunity.
- Diversifying the diet by introducing fortified juices and breakfast cereals helps meet the diverse nutritional needs of a breastfeeding mother.
Conclusion
Honey is a natural food that offers several benefits for breastfeeding mothers when consumed in moderation. It supports immunity, provides energy, and helps treat common skin problems like stretch marks. Honey has a well-known reputation for its positive effects during breastfeeding.
