Can you drink honey water for heatstroke?
In general, people suffering from heatstroke can drink honey water, but excessive consumption is not recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:
After experiencing heatstroke, the body loses significant amounts of water due to excessive sweating, and energy consumption also increases. Honey water contains a large amount of water that can promptly replenish lost fluids and alleviate thirst. Honey is also rich in carbohydrates such as glucose and fructose, which can be quickly absorbed by the body to provide energy, helping to relieve symptoms such as fatigue and listlessness following heatstroke. Additionally, honey water has a pleasant sweet taste and is more acceptable than plain water, encouraging voluntary consumption and helping prevent worsening dehydration.
However, honey intake should be controlled when drinking honey water to avoid excessive sugar intake, which may increase the digestive burden on the gastrointestinal tract. Generally, adding 1–2 teaspoons of honey to a glass of water is sufficient. It is recommended to use warm water to dissolve the honey and avoid using excessively hot water, which may destroy the nutrients in honey. Chilled honey water should also be avoided to prevent low-temperature irritation of the gastrointestinal tract and potential discomfort. Furthermore, if the symptoms of heatstroke are severe—for example, if intense vomiting or confusion occur—drinking honey water should be stopped immediately and medical attention should be sought promptly.