Monday, December 23, 2013

There Are Numerous Nutritional Benefits Of Honey

By Leanne Goff


A pleasing taste is not where the nutritional benefits of honey end. Unfortunately, numerous individuals do not realize just how much this tasty condiment can benefit their health. Of course, it should be used in moderation, similar to any sweet food. However, when used appropriately, it provides numerous health advantages to many people.

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 with which the substance is associated is its antibacterial and antiviral properties. Methylyoxal is the ingredient responsible for these results. The latter is a substance that is been proven scientifically to fight off different viral and bacterial infections. For this reason, individuals who suffer from illnesses such as colds during the winter may want to consider having that traditional cup of hot tea and honey to potentially shorten their 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.

Research is now being completed to find out whether or not honeycomb has a positive effect on the human immune system. Preliminary studies have shown that this may be the case. In areas where the substance is regularly used, individuals may be more resistant to illness and have sturdier immune systems.

The substances found in natural honeycomb may also offer advantages to individuals afflicted with diabetes. Research recently completed shows that in its raw variety, the substance may lessen the plasma glucose count in one's blood, and balance homocysteine levels in both diabetics and healthy individuals. However, these findings must be confirmed with further studies.

Because of the many nutritional benefits of honey, numerous health-conscious individuals have chosen to add the substance to their diet. Organic varieties are the best choice for such individuals, and they can be purchased online or in traditional health food stores. When making a purchase via the Internet, however, it is important to carefully research the website where the transaction will be made prior to entering credit card numbers or other personal information. Finally, it is always wise to discuss any dietary changes with one's primary health care practitioner.




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