The Many Nutritional Benefits Of Honey

By Leanne Goff


The myriad nutritional benefits of honey far exceed a pleasant taste. Unfortunately, a high number of consumers do not realize exactly how many health benefits are associated with the substance. As one would suspect, similar to any sweet food, honeycomb should be used in moderation. However, when one does not consume it excessively, it may offer a considerable number of health benefits.

Conventional sources frequently claim that honey is just sugar. However, this statement is not accurate. There is much more to honeycomb then one may originally think, as it has unique properties not found in processed sugar. This is due to the fact that the bees responsible for the substance enhance it during its production. For this reason, dissimilar to refined white sugar, it has additional qualities, many of which are advantageous to humans.

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.

Certain types of the aforementioned substance can also be used as an antiseptic. This is particularly true with regard to the Manuka variety. The latter is harvested from honeycombs built in shrubs bearing the same name. This type of honeycomb can be placed directly on a wound without the risk of infection. It can also be used to great advantage to soothe burns.

Even though water and carbohydrates primarily make up honeycomb, the latter also contains a vast array of minerals and vitamins. These include copper, iron, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, calcium, manganese, and zinc. It also boasts high amounts of vitamins B3, B5, and B2. In addition, it contains generous levels of antioxidants, especially flavanoids, which are the antioxidants that are found in fresh produce.

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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