Why honey should be avoided for babies under 12 months, top dietician advices parents
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Top dietician Mrs. Folashade Babatunde has warned parents about the dangers of giving honey to babies under 12 months.
In an explainer on her Facebook page, Babatunde explained the risks associated with honey consumption for infants, emphasizing that it is important to avoid giving honey or any products containing honey to babies during their first year.
She explained that honey can contain spores of Clostridium botulinum, a type of bacteria that may appear harmless to older children and adults but poses a significant risk to babies.
“Infant botulism can weaken your baby’s muscles and this can make your baby suck poorly, lose head control, have trouble swallowing or breathing, feel constipated, cry weakly, or have a ‘floppy’ body (weakness in arms, legs and neck).
“Babies are more at risk because their little tummies aren’t mature enough to handle these bacteria. If exposed, symptoms can show up a few hours or even days later. And while this condition is rare, it can be life-threatening and needs emergency care.
Babatunde concluded, “To keep your baby safe, avoid honey completely until they turn one. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!”
