6 reasons why you should include Honey in your diet!
Honey has essential nutrients.
Honey contains 81% sugars in the forms of fructose, glucose, maltose and sucrose. It also has no fats, proteins or fibres. It also contains trace amounts of many vitamins and minerals. It is a healthier alternative to sugar. However, honey is still high in calories and sugar, so one should always consume it in moderation.
Honey has Antioxidants
Good quality honey has many different compounds, like organic acids, phenolic compounds, and flavonoids, which are believed to give honey it’s antioxidant properties. Antioxidants may also reduce the risk of strokes, heart attacks and even cancer in some cases. It may also have a role in improving eye health. Studies have shown that rats and humans that eat honey had reduced blood pressures, which would result in the lowered risk of heart attacks by dilating the arteries and allowing better blood flow to the heart.
Honey helps with Cholesterol- both good and bad.
Many studies have shown a reduction in ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol while simultaneously resulting in a rise in ‘good’ HDL cholesterol and reducing the overall Cholesterol. High LDL cholesterol is a risk factor for many heart diseases as it leads to a buildup of fat in the arteries, which can cause strokes or heart attacks.
Honey can be used to heal Burns and Wounds.
Honey has been used to treat wounds and burns throughout history and is said to have originated in ancient Egypt. Many studies have shown varying degrees of success with healing wounds going all the way to 97% of patients healed. It works on many conditions, including diabetic foot ulcers, psoriasis, herpes lesions, and burns. It is believed to help due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties while also nourishing the tissue around the wound.
Honey can soothe coughs in children.
Using honey can be more effective than common cough medications in suppressing coughs, while also improving the quality of sleep in children. Honey also does not have side effects like some of the cough medications. However, one should not give honey to children under the age of 1 as it may cause botulism.
Honey can help with digestive issues.
Honey is a strong prebiotic and helps in the production of good bacteria in the intestines, which are needed for digestion and general health as well. It is shown to be an effective treatment against the H. pylori bacteria, which causes stomach ulcers. Some people also use it to treat diarrhoea, although there are no studies that prove its effectiveness.
