Allergic to Honey?
Honey is beloved by millions as a sweet, delicious food. But for some people there is a risk of being allergic to honey. It is less common than other food allergies. However, you need to be aware of what to look out for and how to manage it. In this guide, you will learn what it means to be allergic to honey and some tips for having a serious conversation with your doctor.
I feel it seems strange to think of someone having an allergic reaction to honey. But, once you understand more about the contents of raw honey – regular honey varieties – the possibility becomes clearer.
What Does it Mean to Be Allergic to Honey?
Being allergic to honey means that your body’s immune system reacts negatively to some substance found in honey.
Your body mistakenly identifies certain components in honey as harmful – even though it is not. An allergy that involves the immune system can have various symptoms – ranging from mild to severe.
Honey bees make honey from the nectar of millions of blooming flowers. While honey is made up of mostly sugars, it does contain small bits of pollen, bee proteins and other substances.
What Causes a Honey Allergy?
Some people are more sensitive to certain substances than others. The substances in honey varies greatly-depending on the nectar source. There are many different types of honey found worldwide.
Let’s look more closely at the most common causes behind a honey allergy:
- traces of pollen
- bee proteins
- contaminants
- cross-reaction to other allergens
Pollen
When bees make honey from plant nectar some grains of pollen end up in raw honey. These plant proteins can be a healthy addition to the nutritional value of honey. But, if your body has a reaction to those specific pollens – you may experience symptoms.
Bee Proteins
During the process of converting nectar into honey, bees add enzymes secreted from glands in their body. While these proteins are generally harmless, the immune system in allergic individuals may perceive them as threats.
Contaminants
Raw honey, in particular, may contain environmental contaminants like mold spores, dust, or even residue from processing. It would be rare for this to cause an allergic reaction but not impossible.
Cross-Reactive Allergy
Some people with allergies to bee pollen, royal jelly cross-reactivity when consuming honey. They body confuses the similar proteins found in honey and causes a reaction.
Signs & Symptoms
Having a true honey allergy is rare. Less than .001% of the general population experiences a negative reaction to bee honey. But, it’s important to understand the symptoms and know when to seek medical attention.
Mild Symptoms
The signs and symptoms of a honey allergy will vary from one individual to another. This includes the severity as well.
Here are some of the most common reactions:
- rash
- hives
- itchy throat
- runny nose
- sneezing
- watery eyes
- gastronomical issues – nausea, diarrhea
Reactions are normally caused by someone consuming honey but some people have skin sensitivity too.
If you are concerned, before using homemade body products such as : honey salt scrubs or honey goat milk soap, try it on a small area of skin first.
Severe Reactions
A severe allergic reaction to honey (or any allergen) includes the possibility of anaphylaxis shock. This life threatening situation requires immediate emergency assistance.
- difficult breathing
- trouble speaking
- fainting
- tongue swelling
How a Honey Allergy is Diagnosed
If you think you may have a honey allergy, consult your doctor and seek help from a professional allergist. Tests often include blood tests and skin pricks to look for the cause of the reaction.
Treatment may mean avoiding all consumption of suspected foods including honey. Learn to read food labels carefully to make sure you avoid honey products.
Another option may be taking allergy shots to reduce your body’s reaction. Or perhaps, you will only need to take antihistamines for mild issues. Your doctor will provide safe guidance on how to proceed.
FAQs
Allergic reactions to honey vary from person to person but can include – nasal congestion, hives, rashes or severe reactions.
Having an allergy to bee stings does not mean you are allergic to honey. However, you should discuss this with your doctor.
Not necessarily, both beeswax and honey are products from the hive but they different greatly in composition. Beeswax also contains bee propolis and other substances that are not usually found in honey.
Final Thoughts
For the vast majority of the population, there is no worry about allergies to honey, beeswax or other bee products. However, if you suspect a problem after consuming honey, seek help from your medical team. Knowledge and awareness are the keys to staying healthy.
Additional Resources