The history of honey is linked to all the ancient cultures of the world. In some places it became a staple food and in others it was used medicinally. In Egypt it was used to heal wounds and preserve dead bodies. In China, it was used to balance the body's energy and hormonal balance. In India, it not only became a part of food, but also had medicinal, spiritual and commercial uses. After the industrial revolution, many sweeteners came and honey was left behind. Honey, a traditional sweetener, is very useful. It is rich in many nutrients and antioxidants. It has antibacterial properties and can also play an important role in diabetes management if made part of a balanced diet. It is also very beneficial for our heart health. What makes honey so sweet is its chemical makeup. It contains two simple sugars glucose and fructose. Apart from this, it also contains many minerals. These minerals are what make it so beneficial. Today in 'Health Water' we will talk about honey. You will also learn that the benefits of honey are hidden in the process of making it. This process is completely natural. Bees prepare nectar from all kinds of flowers, so it also contains many minerals. Honey prepared by bees is initially quite thin. It can leak out of storage units, so bees fan it with their wings to thicken it. This process causes the honey to become sticky and thick. What is the nutritional value of honey? Honey is mainly sugar. It also contains many vitamins and minerals in small amounts. In addition, it is rich in many plant compounds for good health. What are the benefits of eating honey Honey is a type of sugar. Therefore, it should be consumed in limited quantities. However, unlike regular sugar, its consumption has unique health benefits. Let's see in the graphic what are the benefits of its consumption. Let's look at some studies related to the points given in the graphic. Honey is rich in antioxidants According to a 2018 study published in the National Library of Medicine, honey contains many important bioactive plant compounds and antioxidant acids, such as flavonoids and phenolics. Dark colored honey has more antioxidants than lighter colored honey. Antioxidants help neutralize reactive oxygen species in our bodies. If these oxygen species accumulate in cells, they can cause serious damage. Because of this, a person may age prematurely and increase the risk of type 2 diabetes. Apart from this, the condition of heart disease may increase. Keeps blood sugar levels under control Consuming honey proves to be beneficial in blood sugar management. Honey can have many benefits compared to regular sugar. It's true that honey can raise our blood sugar levels like other sugars, but the antioxidants present in it help protect us from metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes as well. According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine, honey consumption can increase adiponectin levels. It is a hormone that reduces inflammation and improves blood sugar levels. However, it should be consumed in limited quantities. Consuming honey is good for heart health Consuming honey helps prevent heart disease. According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine in 2020, honey helps lower blood pressure and improve blood fat levels. Apart from this, it is also helpful in regulating our heart rate and preventing the death of healthy cells. All these factors can improve the functioning of our heart and its health. Honey usually contains an ingredient called propolis, which can improve cholesterol and triglyceride levels. This prevents the risk of heart disease. There is historical precedent for the use of topical honey as a treatment for wounds and burns effective in preventing wounds and burns. This practice continues till today. According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine, honey is one of the most effective natural remedies for healing wounds and reducing inflammation. According to researchers, the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of honey make it very effective medically. Helpful for cough and sore throat If there is a problem of cold and cough, sometime grandmother should give black pepper, clove or dry ginger powder along with honey. One of the reasons is that it reduces the sharpness of other things with its sweetness. Secondly, it is also effective in cough and sore throat. Both the World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Academy of Pediatrics endorse the consumption of honey as a natural cough remedy. However, never give honey to a child under 1 year of age as it can put the child at risk of botulism. Apart from this, honey may contain many small harmful particles and may also contain bacteria. Children's immune systems are sometimes not strong enough to withstand them. So, consult a pediatrician. Effective in treating acne As much as honey is effective in treating wounds, it also helps in getting rid of acne. This is because it has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties as well as being super-hydrating. Honey contains an enzyme called catalase, which helps reduce minor inflammation. A small amount of honey can be applied to acne breakouts to help fight bacteria and reduce inflammation. What are the side effects of honey?
Image Credit: (Divya-Bhaskar): Images/graphics belong to (Divya-Bhaskar).
Honey's Relation to Food, Bhajan and Medicine: From Wounds, Acne to Heart and Mind, Honey Benefits Everyone, Know 10 Biggest Benefits
