Honey water is a very common and highly nutritious food. It has various benefits such as nourishing yin and moisturizing, beauty and anti-inflammatory effects. However, some people may experience diarrhea after drinking honey water. Why is this?
Overdosing
Honey is a natural tonic with no obvious toxic side effects. However, honey water also has a laxative effect. If taken in excess, its laxative effect increases, leading to diarrhea. It is generally recommended that children consume 30-50 grams of honey water per day, while adults consume 50-100 grams.
Fasting
Honey water itself has a strong lubricating effect on the intestines and promotes bowel movements. When consumed on an empty stomach, its laxative effect becomes stronger. Some people may experience diarrhea when consuming honey water on an empty stomach.
Cool water temperature
Using cold water to brew honey or drinking refrigerated honey water may cause diarrhea. This is because the cool water temperature stimulates the stomach and intestines, combined with the laxative effect of honey water, resulting in diarrhea. It is generally recommended to use water at a temperature of 40-60 degrees Celsius to brew honey.
Fructose intolerance
The fructose component in honey accounts for 49% of the total. Some people have varying degrees of fructose intolerance. When these people consume honey water, the fructose cannot be absorbed after entering the intestines, leading to accumulation in the intestines and causing diarrhea.
Weak gastrointestinal function
People with weak gastrointestinal function or spleen and stomach deficiency may already have symptoms of diarrhea and loose stools. They are also more sensitive to external stimuli. Honey water has a good laxative effect, which may trigger or worsen diarrhea in this group of people.
What to do if honey water causes diarrhea
1. Temporarily stop drinking honey water
If diarrhea occurs after drinking honey water, regardless of the severity, it is advisable to stop taking it. Generally, for those with mild symptoms, stopping honey water for a period of time will alleviate the diarrhea symptoms.
2. Drink warm water
If diarrhea occurs after drinking honey water, you can drink some warm water in moderation. On the one hand, it can help neutralize the coldness in the stomach and intestines and alleviate diarrhea symptoms. On the other hand, it can replenish the body's water to prevent excessive dehydration caused by severe diarrhea.
3. Seek medical attention promptly
If the diarrhea symptoms are severe, show no signs of relief, or other discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek immediate medical attention. The doctor can provide appropriate treatment such as fluid replacement and anti-diarrheal medications to prevent more serious consequences.
