5 Effects Of Honey On Your Health

Honey has been a part of our lives for centuries. It has been used in Ayurveda, Food and Beauty industry all over the world. Honey is found in every household and is used as a sweetener and substitute for sugar. Read on to know about the side effects of honey.

It is considered to be nature’s gift to mankind with numerous health benefits. Honey is loaded with antioxidants and can heal wounds faster.

However, honey has a few side effects that can cause immense trouble if not taken in an adequate dose or in the proper manner. Therefore, the consumption of honey must always be in a restricted manner, only a certain amount incorporated in our diet.Here are the 5 main side effects of honey.

# Infant Botulism

As the name suggests, infant botulism is a disease that a baby gets when it is affected by botulism spores. Honey is made by bees that fly over flowers and thus may contain these particular spores. These spores cause the release of toxins that the baby’s immune system cannot fight against.

Infant botulism may result in constipation, floppy movements of muscles, unable to hold their head, weak cries and sometimes to respiratory failure. Feeding honey to infants, especially to those below one year must be restricted and be done strictly under the prescription of a paediatrician.

# Tooth Decay

As honey is a sweet product, it contains sugar, although, in a low quantity, that acts as food for the bacteria living in the gums. If the honey is not properly rinsed after consuming, it gets stuck to the teeth and gums to increase bacterial activity. This might lead to tooth decay and cavities. Cavities result to bad oral health and promote tooth decay.

# Increases Weight

Although honey is often taken with water to lose weight or is used as a substitute for sugar, one tablespoon of honey contains about 64 calories. So, consuming honey in a large quantity can add to the calorie intake. There are many common foods that are treated with honey during their production. To avoid extra calories, these foods must be consumed in a controlled fashion.

# Increases Blood Glucose Level

Though honey acts as an anti-diabetic agent when consumed in a restricted small amount, it surges the blood sugar level if taken in a high quantity. Honey contains a high level of sugar that will subsequently increase the level of glucose in the bloodstream and then result in different complications.

# Allergen

It is often noticed that people who are allergic to pollen grains and spores often show a reaction to honey too. This is very common as honey is processed from these pollen grains by the bees. It contains minute pollen and spore particles that might lead to allergy. Mild symptoms like sneezing, facial swelling, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes shock can result from honey allergy.