Honey is a natural sweetener that is generally safe for most people to consume. However, like any food, it is possible for some individuals to have an allergic reaction to honey or to experience side effects after consuming it.

Allergic reactions to honey are rare, but they can occur in people who are allergic to pollen, which is found in some types of honey. 

Symptoms of a honey allergy may include:

• Rash or hives
• Swelling of the lips, face, tongue, or throat
• Itching
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Chest tightness or pain
• Anaphylaxis (a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction)

In rare cases, honey can also cause botulism in infants under the age of 1. This is because the bacteria that can cause botulism can sometimes be found in honey. 

Symptoms of infant botulism may include:

• Constipation
• Weak cry
• Weak muscle tone
• Difficulty sucking or feeding
• Weakness in the muscles used for breathing

If you or your child experiences any of these symptoms after consuming honey, you should seek medical attention immediately.

Why pregnant women and children should not consume honey

It is generally considered safe for pregnant women to consume honey as part of a healthy diet in moderation. However, there are a few potential concerns that may lead some pregnant women to avoid honey:

• Risk of infant botulism: As mentioned earlier, infants under the age of 1 are at risk of developing infant botulism if they consume honey. If a pregnant woman consumes honey, it is possible that the bacteria that can cause botulism could be passed on to her newborn through her breast milk. For this reason, it is recommended that infants not be given honey until they are at least 1 year old, and that pregnant women avoid consuming honey during the last trimester of pregnancy.

• High sugar content: Honey is a natural sweetener that is high in sugar. Consuming too much sugar during pregnancy has been linked to an increased risk of gestational diabetes, preterm delivery, and other complications. For this reason, it is important for pregnant women to be mindful of their sugar intake and to consume honey in moderation.

• Risk of allergic reactions: As mentioned earlier, some people may be allergic to pollen, which is found in some types of honey. If a pregnant woman has an allergic reaction to honey, it could potentially be harmful to her and her unborn baby.

Overall, it is generally considered safe for pregnant women to consume honey in moderation as part of a healthy diet. However, if you have any concerns about consuming honey during pregnancy, it is always a good idea to speak with a healthcare professional for advice.

It is also worth noting that honey can contain trace amounts of toxins and pollutants, depending on the type of honey and where it is produced. However, these levels are generally considered to be low and not a concern for most people.

In general, honey is considered safe to consume in moderation as part of a healthy diet. However, it is important to be aware of any potential side effects or allergic reactions that may occur. If you have any concerns about consuming honey, it is always a good idea to speak with a healthcare professional for advice.