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.

Certain kinds of honeycomb also contain antiseptic properties. This is especially true regarding Manuka honey. This variety is harvested from the shrub of the same name, into which bees construct honeycombs. This version of the substance can be put directly on a wound without risking infection. It also contains properties that can 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.

Research is currently underway to discover whether or not the aforementioned substance can enhance the human immune system. Studies have shown that this may be the case. In some areas of the world, where different kinds of honeycomb are used regularly, people appear to be more resilient to sickness and may have stronger immune systems.

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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