Health Benefits of Raw Honey for Kids

From healing cuts to easing cold symptoms, did you know honey has many benefits for children ages two and older? But when choosing this must-have pantry staple, parents should be sure to select raw and unfiltered varieties, as heat-treated and filtered honey loses most of its powerful nutrients and antibacterial properties. Just how the bees made it is best! Here are five ways that honey can help our little ones.

1. Calms upset tummies: Honey contains digestive enzymes, plus prebiotics and is believed to destroy certain gut bacteria, which can help support digestion and ease constipation.
2. Soothes sore throats: A teaspoon of honey before bedtime can bring relief to irritated throats and acts as a natural cough suppressant, thanks to honey’s antioxidants, antiviral and antibacterial properties.
3. Heals wounds: Honey’s antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties make it a great choice for soothing small cuts and reducing inflammation.
4. A healthier sugar swap: Raw honey contains approximately 22 amino acids, 31 different minerals, and a wide range of vitamins and enzymes, making it a better-for-you swap for refined sugar when baking kid-friendly treats, like honey butter brownies. And, because honey is sweeter than sugar, you can use less! Here’s a helpful guide to baking with honey.
5. Natural energy booster: Honey provides a clean source of natural sugar and is rich in carbohydrates to provide kids with a steady energy supply for after school sports and activities, minus the dreaded crash. Ditch the sugary sports drink and try this homemade version instead.

For a raw and unfiltered honey that also supports local beekeepers, check out Local Hive™ Southeast Blend at Birmingham-area Winn Dixie, Walmart, Target, Whole Foods Market, and Sprouts locations. This regional blend has a floral and confectionary, with just a bit of tangy taste that kids love. Bringing 100 percent American honey to market for over 100 years, Local Hive™ proudly sources its honey exclusively from beekeepers across the United States. Single source and Harvest Reserve blends are also available through LocalHiveHoney.com.

Please note: According to the CDC and the American Academy of Pediatrics, babies under the age of 1 should not be given honey.  As always, check with your doctor first.