The recent buzz about honey has been concentrated on its various health benefits. Honey’s widespread availability and affordability are an added advantage to consumers and the research community. The product can be taken with a spoon or co-opted into the recipe. Another popular way of consuming honey is adding it to coffee and tea as a sweetener.
There are 300 plus types of honey sold in the US; most can be purchased raw or in the pasteurized form. Raw honey is directly obtained from the beehive. Due to limited processing, raw honey contains the highest concentration of antioxidants. Raw honey may require warming with medium heat before consumption. The presence of protective chemicals in honey is primarily determined by the location where the product is produced.
Pasteurized kinds of honey usually undergo a series of improvements. Besides removing imperfections, the honey can be sweetened further with corn syrup and other sweeteners. When looking for honey at the store, you need to pay attention to the label. Read more about it here to learn more about the top health benefits of honey.
Help Fight Metabolic Syndrome
Studies show the risk factors for metabolic syndrome are as high as 1/3 across the US populace. A study on metabolic syndrome (MetS) appearing in the Journal Nutrient offers critical insights. It shows most people diagnosed with the syndrome have a large waistline, high blood pressure, low levels of good HDL, high blood sugar, and high levels of harmful triglycerides.
Preference for honey in the treatment of MetS is informed by its subdued glycemic index, which means it won’t raise insulin or blood sugar levels. Honey has also shown promising results in enhancing insulin sensitivity and preventing excessive weight gain. The anti-oxidative property is another huge plus as it helps minimize oxidative stress caused by the discrepancy in the cell-damaging free radicals and the body’s immunity response.
Prevent The Potentially Fatal Artery Hardening
Studies on the health benefits of honey in preventing potentially fatal artery hardening are quickly gaining pace. Its potency in treating artery hardening is enhanced with the presence of over 180 substances. These include natural sugars, phytochemicals, and vitamins. Also, the anti-inflammatory benefits, antioxidant properties, and the potential to fight oxidative stress give honey vital protective attributes that can help fight artery hardening. Other studies suggest consuming honey with high antioxidants can raise the natural blood antioxidant level and cut down the levels of processed sugar in the body.
Support A Healthy Gut Ecosystem
Honey’s growing use as complementary medicine has led researchers to review its prebiotic properties. A study published on Integrative Medicine Insights shows prebiotics can ferment bacteria that play a valuable role in the gut, such as lactobacilli and bifidobacteria. The interplay has been shown to strengthen immune function and promote mental wellness. It might even improve your dental health. If you require dental care, get your teeth grinded at a Dentist in Harrisburg.
Exacerbate Wound Healing
Wound healing is a vital biological process involving many cell types and processes. The use of honey to speed wound healing can be traced back many centuries. Honey’s potential benefit in wound healing dressing is attributed to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial properties. In practical terms, raw honey can be applied directly on a burn or minor cut before a bandage or other suitable covering is applied. Since honey is acidic, it effectively frees oxygen trapped in the wound, thereby promoting healing.
Treat Upper Respiratory Tract Infections (URTI)
Many studies evaluating the potential treatment benefits of honey on upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) are readily available for discernment. A study by Oxford University researchers published in the respected journal BMJ Evidence-Based Medicine implies honey could improve the frequency and severity of the cough. It also provides an inexpensive alternative treatment option for antibiotics. Although additional studies are necessary, several controlled studies show researchers are wary of the growing antimicrobial resistance factor. The resistance is especially alarming among the antibiotic regimen prescribed for URTI.
Offer Essential Body-Building Nutrients
Honey provides vital body-building nutrients as well as antioxidants and natural sugars. A teaspoon of raw honey delivers about 64 calories and 16g of sugar. Despite their low volumes, studies show more than 30 minerals are found in honey. These include magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, and potassium.
It is essential to recognize that honey also has many volatile compounds that could potentially cause biomedical effects. People on sugar-restricted diets may be asked to consume honey to maintain the levels of blood sugar. Researchers continue to analyze the functional benefits of honey’s complex compositions.