<h3>1. Contains a variety of nutrients</h3>

One tablespoon (20 grams) of honey contains:

<b>Calories:</b> 61

<b>Protein:</b> 0 g

<b>Carbs:</b> 17 g

<b>Fiber:</b> 0 g

<b>Riboflavin:</b> 1% of the Daily Value (DV)

<b>Copper:</b> 1% DV

Honey is mostly composed of sugar, with trace amounts of protein and fiber. It does, however, contain small quantities of various vitamins and minerals. While not a significant source of nutrients, it is rich in plant compounds known as polyphenols.

<b>Summary</b>

Honey is primarily composed of sugar, provides small amounts of vitamins and minerals, and is rich in health-promoting plant compounds.

<h3>2. Rich in antioxidants</h3>

Minimally processed honey contains bioactive plant compounds and antioxidants, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids. Darker varieties tend to have higher antioxidant content than lighter ones.

Antioxidants help neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the body, preventing cellular damage linked to aging, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. Many of honey’s health benefits are attributed to its antioxidant properties.

<b>Summary</b>

Honey contains antioxidants, including phenolic acids and flavonoids, which help protect the body from oxidative damage.

<h3>3. Better for blood sugar levels than regular sugar</h3>

Honey may offer slight benefits over regular sugar when it comes to blood sugar management. While honey raises blood sugar levels like other sugars, its antioxidants may help protect against metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes.

Research suggests honey may increase adiponectin levels, a hormone that reduces inflammation and improves blood sugar regulation. Daily honey intake may improve fasting blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes.

However, honey should still be consumed in moderation. Some producers may dilute honey with plain syrup, so it’s important to choose pure honey.

<b>Summary</b>

Dear Lykkers, honey may help with blood sugar regulation but should still be consumed in moderation, particularly for individuals with type 2 diabetes.

<h3>4. May improve heart health</h3>

Honey may offer heart health benefits, including lowering blood pressure, improving blood fat-levels, regulating heartbeat, and preventing cell death.

One observational study found moderate honey intake was linked to lower risk of high blood pressure in women. A rodent study also showed honey’s ability to protect the heart from oxidative stress.

Raw honey often contains propolis, which may help improve cholesterol and triglyceride levels. However, more research is needed to fully understand honey’s effects on heart health.

8 Raw Honey Benefits That Will Transform Your Health

Video by Medical Centric

<b>Summary</b>

Honey may support heart health by lowering blood pressure and improving cholesterol levels, but more research is needed on long-term effects.

<h3>5. Promotes burn and wound healing</h3>

Honey has been used for centuries as a topical treatment for burns and wounds. It’s still commonly used today due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

A review of 26 studies found honey particularly effective for healing partial-thickness burns and wounds infected after surgery. Manuka honey is especially beneficial for burn treatments. However, severe burns require immediate medical attention, and home remedies are not substitutes for emergency care.

<b>Summary</b>

Honey is effective for healing burns and wounds when applied topically, particularly for diabetes-related foot ulcers.

<h3>6. May help suppress coughing in children</h3>

Coughing is a common issue for children with upper respiratory infections. Honey may serve as an effective, natural cough suppressant.

A review of studies found that honey works better than diphenhydramine for alleviating cough symptoms and may also help reduce cough duration. Additionally, honey doesn’t cause side effects like some over-the-counter medications.

However, honey should not be given to children under 1 year of age due to the risk of botulism.

<b>Summary</b>

For children over 1 year old, honey can act as a natural and safe cough suppressant, often more effective than cough medicines.

<h3>7. Easy to add to your diet</h3>

Honey is a versatile ingredient that can be added to your diet in various ways. It can be used to sweeten yogurt, coffee, tea, and recipes. It’s also a great substitute for sugar in cooking and baking.

However, honey is still a form of sugar, so excessive consumption can lead to increased blood sugar levels, weight gain, and a higher risk of conditions like type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

<b>Summary</b>

Honey is easy to incorporate into your diet, but it should be consumed in moderation due to its sugar content.

Honey is not just a sweetener; it’s packed with antioxidants and compounds that may offer numerous health benefits. From supporting heart health to promoting wound healing and suppressing coughs, honey is a valuable addition to a balanced diet. Just be sure to use it in moderation, as it is still a form of sugar.