According to Dr. Tran Thi Tra Phuong from the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics at Tam Anh General Hospital (Hanoi), honey is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It provides natural energy, improves sleep, lowers bad cholesterol, soothes sore throats, supports wound healing, and promotes healthy skin and hair.

However, the following individuals should limit or avoid its use due to potential health risks.

1. Infants under one year old

The World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advise against giving honey to children under 12 months of age, even in small amounts. This is because honey, often stored for long periods in sealed containers, may contain spores of Clostridium botulinum if not processed hygienically—posing a serious risk of poisoning.

Infants under one year have underdeveloped digestive systems that cannot effectively neutralize these spores. Once in the gut, the spores can become active bacteria, producing toxins that may lead to botulism—a condition that can cause respiratory failure, muscle paralysis, and even death.

2. People with diabetes

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture National Nutrient Database, a tablespoon of honey (about 21 grams) contains 64 calories and 17.3 grams of sugar—primarily fructose and glucose—but no fiber, fat, or protein. For individuals with diabetes, excessive consumption may disrupt blood sugar control.

Since honey’s sugar content can vary depending on the nectar source, people with diabetes should consult their doctor before consuming it to minimize the risk of blood sugar spikes and complications.

3. Those with allergies

People with a history of allergies to pollen, propolis (bee glue), or severe reactions to bee stings may also be allergic to honey. In such cases, the immune system can release large amounts of histamine, triggering symptoms ranging from mild—such as itching, hives, and swelling of the lips, tongue, or face—to severe, including difficulty breathing or even anaphylactic shock.

To ensure safety, individuals should try a small amount of honey and monitor their body’s response before incorporating it into their regular diet. Those known to be allergic should avoid honey entirely and carefully check food labels to ensure it is not included as an ingredient.

4. People with low blood pressure

Honey is rich in potassium, which can help dilate blood vessels and mildly lower blood pressure. For individuals with low blood pressure, especially those taking antihypertensive medication, regular consumption of honey should be approached with caution.

5. Individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Honey’s high fructose content can have a laxative effect and stimulate bowel movements. In individuals with IBS, excessive consumption may aggravate symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort.

6. People with liver disease

The liver plays a key role in metabolizing sugar, and honey contains a significant amount of it. Excessive consumption can strain the liver, particularly in individuals with pre-existing liver conditions. A high sugar intake may also contribute to fat buildup in the liver, posing risks for those with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

7. People with obesity

Although honey is often considered a healthier alternative to refined sugar, it is still high in sugar and calories. Excessive calorie intake—including from honey—can lead to fat accumulation and weight gain, potentially hindering weight loss efforts.

Its natural sweetness may also stimulate appetite, encouraging overeating. Individuals managing their weight should monitor and limit their honey consumption as part of a balanced diet.

8. Post-surgery patients

Honey may slow blood clotting, so individuals who have recently undergone surgery should consult their doctor before consuming it.

9. People taking medications

Raw honey may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners, epilepsy drugs containing phenytoin, antibiotics, cardiovascular medications, and blood sugar-lowering drugs. These interactions can reduce the effectiveness of the medications or increase the risk of side effects. People taking prescription medications should consult their doctor before consuming honey.

Dr. Phuong advises that even healthy individuals should consume honey in moderation. Added or natural sugars—including honey, fruit juice, and syrups—should account for no more than 10% of an adult’s total daily caloric intake.

Consumers are encouraged to choose raw honey and avoid mixing it with boiling water, as high temperatures can destroy its beneficial enzymes and nutrients. Honey should also not be consumed with soybean-based products like soy milk or mung bean milk, as the minerals, organic acids, and proteins in these foods may react with enzymes in honey, causing harmful biochemical reactions.

In addition, honey is not recommended to be eaten with seafood, as the combination may irritate the digestive tract and lead to diarrhea or food poisoning.