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Babies under 2 years old should not be given honey as it may contain the bacteriaClostridium botulinum, a type of bacteria that causes infant botulism, which is a serious intestinal infection that can cause paralysis of the limbs and even sudden death. However, this is not the only food that is capable of causing botulism, as the bacteria can also be found in vegetables and fruits.
For this reason, it is recommended that the baby's feeding be exclusively composed of breast milk when possible, especially in the first months of life. This is the safest way to ensure that the child is protected from external factors that can cause illness, since the baby does not yet have defenses to fight bacteria, for example. In addition, breast milk in the first few months contains the antibodies needed to help the baby form and strengthen its natural defense system. Know all the benefits of breastfeeding.
What can happen if the baby consumes honey
When the body absorbs the contaminated honey, it can affect neurons in up to 36 hours, causing paralysis of muscles and directly affecting breathing. The most serious risk of this intoxication is the sudden death syndrome of the newborn, in which the baby may die during sleep without having previously presented signs and symptoms. Understand better what is sudden death syndrome in babies and why it happens.
When the baby can consume honey
It is safe to consume honey for babies only after the second year of life, as the digestive system will be more developed and mature to fight the botulism bacteria, without risks for the child. After the second year of life, if you choose to give honey to your child, ideally, it should be served at room temperature.
Although there are some brands of honey that are currently certified by the National Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA), and that are within the quality standards imposed by the government, the ideal is not to supply honey to babies under two years old, since they are not there is a guarantee that this bacterium has been completely removed.
What to do if the baby eats honey
If the baby ingests the honey it is necessary to see a pediatrician immediately. The diagnosis will be made observing clinical signs and in some cases laboratory tests may be requested. The treatment for botulism is done by gastric lavage and, in certain cases, the child may need devices to facilitate breathing. Normally, recovery is quick and the baby is not at risk due to treatment.
Attention to these signs is recommended for the next 36 hours after the baby has consumed honey:
- Somnolence;
- Diarrhea;
- Effort to breathe;
- Difficulty raising your head;
- Stiffness of arms and / or legs;
- Total paralysis of arms and / or legs.
If two or more of these signs appear, it is recommended to return to the nearest health center, as these signs are indications of botulism, which must be evaluated again by the pediatrician.