The Many Nutritional Benefits Of Honey

By Leanne Goff


The nutritional benefits of honey go far beyond its sweet taste. Unfortunately, many people are unaware of just how much this substance can benefit their health. Naturally, as with any sweet food, it must be taken in moderation. However, when it is used properly, it offers many health advantages to humans.

Traditionally honey is viewed as nothing more than sugar. This theory is flawed, however. Honeycomb contains unique qualities, and for this reason there is more to it than meets the eye. Refined sugar does not have the qualities of natural honey, as the bees responsible for manufacturing the latter add properties to the finished product that are not found in white sugar. For this reason, it can benefit human health in ways that sugar cannot.

One example of the many advantages of the aforementioned substance is its anti-bacterial and antiviral qualities. The ingredient responsible for this effect is referred to as methylglyoxal. This substance was scientifically proven to combat both viral and bacterial germs. Therefore, having that traditional cup of honey flavored tea when one is suffering from colds or other sicknesses that commonly attack during winter is a good way to enhance recovery time.

The substance can also be used as an antiseptic. Manuka honey is particularly helpful in this regard. The latter is found in honeycombs built in manuka shrubs, hence its name. This kind of honeycomb can be used to treat open wounds without the risk of infecting the area. It is also highly advantageous when used to soothe burns.

Even though honeycomb is primarily made up of water and carbohydrates, it also contains generous amounts of minerals and vitamins. The latter include vitamins B5, B3, and B2, as well as phosphorus, magnesium, manganese, zinc, copper, calcium, potassium and iron. It also contains flavanoids and other antioxidants. Flavanoids are found in numerous fruits and vegetables.

Studies are currently being conducted to determine whether or not honey stimulates the immune system. Research indicated that this may be the case. In certain parts of the world, where various types of honey are used on a regular basis, individuals appear to have stronger immune systems and are more resilient to illness.

The properties in natural honeycomb may also be beneficial for those suffering from diabetes. Recently completed research indicated that in its raw variety, the substance can reduce the amount of plasma glucose in the human bloodstream, and balance homocysteine levels in both healthy and diabetic patients. However, further studies are necessary to confirm these findings.

Due to the numerous nutritional benefits of honey, certain consumers who are health conscious invest in organic varieties of the substance. The organic variety is the best choice for such consumers. Such products can be bought in conventional stores or online. However, before completing a transaction or entering personal information such as credit card numbers, one should thoroughly research the website. Finally, any dietary changes should always be discussed with one's family doctor.




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