Honey for taste & health
As health awareness grows, the multifaceted benefits of honey over sugar are being increasingly recognized. The traditional natural sweetener is valued for its healthful qualities and contribution to a nutritious diet.
There is mounting evidence to suggest the importance of dietary choices in averting inflammatory diseases and this has led to a renewed interest for naturally beneficial foods like honey. The golden nectar’s inherent attributes make it a superior choice for those looking for healthy, sweet alternatives.
Nutritional composition and Ayurvedic significance
Honey's unique nutritional profile offers a mix of carbohydrates, sugars, and traces of vitamins and minerals. It is produced mainly by two types of bees: honeybee and stingless bee.
Since both types of honey possess distinctive phenolic and flavonoid compounds, it has a positive role to perform in inflammation-related chronic diseases. While a tablespoon of honey contains 64 calories and 17 grams of sugars, it blends fructose and glucose, and thus becomes a healthier alternative to refined sugar.
Ayurvedic medicines rely on honey for its healing properties, and over 600 ancient remedies comprise honey. In recent times, the government has moved to mainstream traditional healthcare practices, and therefore honey is bound to be a kitchen favourite.
A National Library of Medicine article on “Traditional Medicine and Modern Medicine from Natural Products” mentions: “It is possible to produce remarkable synergy and yield great benefits in developing reformed medicines and new drugs by connecting powerful modern scientific techniques and methods with the reasonable ethnobotanical and ethnomedical experiences of traditional medicines.”
Low glycemic index
One of honey’s most significant advantages over sugar is its lower glycemic index (GI), which means it has a less harmful effect on blood sugar levels. The antioxidants present in honey contribute to its anti-diabetic effects by regulating blood sugar levels. While too much honey may lead to a rise in blood sugar levels, raw honey without added sugars presents a more healthful choice.
Unpasteurized honey and antioxidants
Honey is a reservoir of enzymes and antioxidants. The antioxidants found in honey are crucial for activating the immune system and managing inflammation.
Energy and weight management
Incorporating honey into your diet can offer energy boosts and aid in weight management. Its low glycemic load is beneficial for reducing appetite, and its natural sugars provide a sustained source of energy. Notably, consuming honey, especially before bedtime, may support the body in burning more fat during sleep due to its ability to optimize metabolism.
Cardiovascular and digestive health
Honey’s rich antioxidant content also spells good news for heart health. These compounds can help lower the risk of heart diseases and fight inflammation. Furthermore, honey is easier to digest than sugar, thanks to the presence of pre-existing enzymes, promoting overall digestive health.
Sustainable and environmentally friendly
The production of honey, particularly through sustainable practices like those recommended by the Khadi and Village Industries Commission, has positive ecological implications. Beekeeping supports biodiversity and helps maintain ecological balance, which is not something that can be said for the mass production of sugar.
Govt endorsement
The Ministry of AYUSH’s endorsement of honey as a home remedy and preventive measure during the Covid-19 pandemic highlights its importance in traditional and contemporary health practices. Traditional medicines or preventive nutrition is an integral part of healthcare management in public health systems globally, thereby increasing the importance of honey.
Honey stands out as a superior alternative to sugar due to its nutritional benefits, role in disease management, and sustainable production. Its rich history in traditional medicine and its growing recognition in modern diets underscore its lasting value as a healthful sweetener.
Whether for its metabolic advantages, energy-boosting properties, or skin health benefits, honey's natural goodness makes it a popular choice for those looking to make health-conscious decisions in their diets.
The article is authored by Namrata Khanna, Director, India Honey Alliance.
