Honey has long been considered one of the best folk remedies. It is taken internally in pure form or in other variations. Honey is also used for rubbing and compresses. The usefulness of this product is undoubtedly high and time-tested, but for young infants, the question of benefits remains controversial.
Cons and pros of drinking honey at an early age
Before deciding to use honey at an early age, you should know what the risks may be.
Cons of using honey:
- high degree of allergenicity;
- the substances contained in honey can cause mild toxic poisoning of the baby's body and subsequently lead to an infectious bowel disease (botulism);
- causes caries, this product destroys enamel to a greater extent than other sweets, as it sticks to it and acts for a long time;
- the quality of the product sometimes leaves much to be desired.
Indeed, despite the fact that honey is one of the ancient types of food, its study continues to this day. It is a product of the vital activity of bees, therefore the environment and ecology affect its quality. Honey that existed many centuries ago and today's honey differ significantly in quality, and the current one is not in the black.
Pros of using honey:
- assists in the treatment of colds, softens the mucous membranes of the throat and nose;
- can be used as an antibacterial agent;
- high content of vitamins: phosphorus, iron, minerals necessary for the growth and development of the skeleton of bones;
- sugar can be replaced with honey, it is more easily absorbed by the child's body.
- has a tonic and calming effect, many children sleep better after drinking honey at night.
Honey in baby food
Doctors advise against giving honey to children under three years old. If it is not necessary, it is better to exclude it. Some people are skeptical about general opinion and have every right to do so. Only parents know more than anyone what is possible and useful for their baby. By the method of trial and observation during the first months of life, some preferences are already developed. Many people give their babies honey from the cradle. If you decide to try it anyway, there are a few important rules to keep in mind. Honey must be of high quality, buy the product only in specialized stores or from trusted sellers. Be sure to read the composition, in modern production, honey can add impurities that are harmful to the baby.
Use should be started with small doses. The first times - trial - the minimum amount, on the tip of a teaspoon. For an adult, the daily rate of honey is one tablespoon. Consequently, the baby needs many times less. Use honey only for medicinal purposes, not to enhance or sweeten the taste. After taking it, it is advisable to immediately rinse your mouth with water, which is quite difficult for babies under one year old to do on their own.
Try to start drinking honey from at least five to six months of the child's life, when the digestive system is working. It is advisable to add honey to drinks, porridge, and not use it in pure form. If you think that a child needs honey for health, it helps in treatment and at the same time does not cause negative reactions, then you can use it.
