During pregnancy, numerous women use  honey as an alternative to refined white sugar.However is it safe to consume honey in pregnancy is a question often asked as myths abound about this beneficial product.

Components of Honey 

Honey has been used as a sweetener since ancient times and has been associated with many therapeutic properties.The main carbohydrate in honey is fructose.The vitamin and mineral content of honey is negligible.Very small amounts of vitamin C are also present.The composition of honey at any time depends on the flowers that were used to extract the nectar from.

Classification of Honey

• Raw honey

This type of honey is untouched by any method of industrial processing.The extracted honey is strained to remove large particles and is bottled and stored.No heat treatment of any kind is given.Wax, pollen, bacterial spores can be present in this type of honey.

• Pasteurised honey

Just like pasteurised milk is safer for consumption , honey treated in a similar manner is always safer to use.The process of pasteurizing kills the yeast calls that may be present as well as spores of a bacteria called botulinum which otherwise can cause serious diseases.Bacterial spores which can affect children under the age of one , do not affect the growing foetus or the mother.In all regards it is absolutely safe to eat honey during pregnancy as there are no risks attached to it.

Uses of honey during pregnancy

1. Heartburn -

It is a common complain as the growing foetus exerts pressure on the the stomach which  can sometimes result in reflux of acids in the oesophagus.Honey may help to ease the symptoms.

2. Morning sickness-

It helps to provide relief for nausea and vomiting which is very common in the early months of pregnancy.Honey and lemon  mixed in water can be sipped whenever required.However an excess of it should be avoided as it is a carbohydrate and will contribute to calories.Three to four spoons , in the place of white sugar is acceptable.

Ensure that the honey you purchase is from a reputed brand.Do not buy loose honey as it could be adulterated with unknown agents and can harm your health.Store honey in air tight containers away from sunlight.Refrigeration is optional. 

Remember the above mentioned points and you are sure to benefit from this form of alternative sugar without having to think about the risks involved.

Image Credit- methodsofhealing.com