Parenthood comes with an overwhelming list of dos and don’ts, making it tough to remember everything your child should or shouldn’t have. However, one piece of advice stands out, backed by medical reasons, when it comes to feeding your baby—avoid giving them honey.
Why Should Babies Avoid Honey?
Honey may seem harmless, but for babies under 12 months, it poses a hidden risk. It can contain Clostridium botulinum spores, which their undeveloped digestive systems can’t handle. These spores can produce a toxin that leads to infant botulism, a serious condition. Symptoms include weak muscles, trouble feeding, a soft cry, constipation, and a generally floppy appearance.
How to Protect Your Baby from Infant Botulism
To prevent infant botulism, completely avoid giving honey to babies under one year old. This includes not only raw honey but also any foods that list honey as an ingredient, like certain crackers or baked goods. Although corn syrups might also carry similar bacteria, there’s no clear evidence of a connection yet. If you’re unsure, it’s best to check with your pediatrician before introducing these to your child.
When Can Kids Safely Have Honey?
Once your child turns one, their digestive system is more developed and can safely handle the spores that may be present in honey. After this milestone, honey can be a sweet and safe addition to their diet without the risk of botulism.