Health Benefits of Honey

 

Honey - Natural Energy Booster

Honey contains many vitamins(B1,B2,C,B6,B5,B3)and minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphate, potassium, sodium chlorine and sulphur.So using honey in our daily diet is good for our health.

Like sugar,Honey also contains glucose and fructose.Both are considered as energy boosters.But we can consume honey and reduce the usage of white sugar.

Health benefits of honey

• Supplies antioxidants: Honey is not only a sweetener but also one of the best natural sources of bioavailable antioxidants, as mentioned in the study by Schramm et al. Our body needs antioxidants to counter the disease-causing and aging effects of free radicals and reactive oxygen species. The high antioxidant content of honey is shown to protect the body from multiple conditions like blood pressure, atherosclerosis, and cancer.
• Is an antidiabetic agent: The blood sugar level of individuals suffering from diabetes increases because of low or no insulin production in their body. Bobis et al concluded in their research that honey could be beneficial in the treatment of diabetes. It could limit metabolic disorders, better control hyperglycemic state, and reduce damage to organs that could cause diabetic complications.
• Lowers blood pressure: Studies prove that substituting sugar with honey lowers the risk of developing diseases in the cardiovascular system. It not only lowers total cholesterol but specifically targets and reduces bad cholesterol (LDL). Surprisingly, it increases good cholesterol (HDL). Honey also lowers triglycerides and systolic blood pressure. Aluko et al state in their study that consuming honey even for a short period reduced systolic blood pressure and could cut down the chances of developing high blood pressure in the future.
• Promotes weight loss: Honey has been used as an important ingredient in home remedies for weight loss. It is nourishing and has digestive properties which render it an excellent substitute for sugary food and artificial energy supplements, without the worry of harmful side effects. It is also ideal for consumption by sportspersons as it reduces the frequency and intensity of muscle cramps. Nevertheless, honey needs to be taken in moderation as overconsumption can hamper digestion and blood sugar levels.
• Boosts the immune system: Honey is filled with antioxidants and antibacterial compounds that strengthen immunity and protect from bacterial and viral attacks.
• Keeps skin healthy: The constituents of raw honey are great for treating acne. Manuka honey, in particular, is considered the best for applying to the face. The water present in honey moisturizes the face while its digestive properties reduce blemishes and puffiness. The medicinal properties present in raw honey also help in alleviating eczema and psoriasis. Honey increases skin cell renewal and promotes rapid healing. It rids the skin of dead and old cells.
• Helps with respiratory disorders: Honey is considered a natural remedy for cough, especially in children. In his study, Goldman mentions that just one dose of honey given before bedtime decreased cough and discomfort in children. It is also an accepted remedy recommended by the American Academy of Paediatrics.
• Helps with digestion: According to a study by El-Arab et al, consuming honey improves gut microflora by inhibiting the harmful effects of mycotoxins. Consuming raw honey stops diarrhoea, reduces peptic ulcers, and prevents bloating, acid reflux and heartburn. Studies reveal that honey can prevent acid reflux by forming a protective coating on the mucous lining of the stomach and oesophagus.
• Works as an antibiotic: Scientists the world-over have been researching honey's ability to fight infections. Studies have proved that H2O2, MGO and Defensin-1 present in honey have bactericidal properties. Tualang honey was able to inhibit the growth of gastric infection-causing bacteria such as Salmonella typhi, Shigella flexneri and Escherichia coli. It also helped to speed up recovery from stomach infections.
• Fights tooth decay: Topical application of honey changes the pH level within the mouth. This inhibits and reduces bacterial counts, thus preventing gingivitis and caries.