Cura features “Honey” as its September wellness blog encouraging us to use as a natural, healthier sweetener to our food!
Honey has been treasured for thousands of years, not only for its sweetness but for its remarkable health benefits. From ancient civilizations to modern wellness enthusiasts, honey has been used as both food and medicine. Honey is a natural liquid sugar created by hardworking honeybees. Honey gets its sweetness from two simple sugars glucose and fructose. Just like any food or beverage honey should be consumed in moderation. One tablespoon of honey contains 61calories, and 17grams of carb. Honey is fat free and contains trace amounts of fiber and protein Honey has additional health benefits and is a great alternative to cane sugar or artificial sweeteners.
Let’s explore some benefits of honey.
1. Rich in Antioxidants
Honey contains powerful antioxidants, which play a crucial role in protecting your body from oxidative stress. These antioxidants help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer. Raw honey is the least processed and contains the most antioxidants. Flavonoids and phenolic acids found in honey are known to fight off free radicals, which are molecules that can damage cells.
How to Use:
· Add a teaspoon of raw honey to your morning tea or yogurt for an antioxidant boost.
· Use it as a natural sweetener in smoothies or oatmeal.
2. Natural Cough Suppressant
Many people reach for honey as a home remedy for coughs and sore throats — and for good reason. Honey has been shown to be just as effective (if not more so) than some over-the-counter cough medicines. It forms a protective coating over the throat, soothing irritation and reducing the need to cough.
How to Use:
· Mix one tablespoon of honey with warm water and lemon juice to calm a sore throat.
· Take a spoonful of honey before bed to ease nighttime coughing.
3. Supports Gut Health
Raw honey acts as a prebiotic, which helps feed the good bacteria in your gut. These beneficial bacteria are essential for digestion and overall gut health. Honey can also help soothe digestive issues like acid reflux and indigestion, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties.
How to Use:
· Add honey to herbal teas like ginger or chamomile to calm an upset stomach.
· Drizzle honey over fruit or yogurt to create a gut-healthy snack.
4. Natural Energy Source
Honey is a great source of natural sugars — glucose and fructose — which your body can easily convert into energy. Unlike processed sugars, honey offers a quick energy boost without sugar crashing. Its blend of carbohydrates makes it an excellent natural fuel for athletes and those needing an energy pick-me-up.
How to Use:
· Eat a spoonful of honey before a workout for an energy boost.
· Mix honey into water for quick hydration and energy solution during exercise.
7. Boosts Immunity
Raw honey, especially when consumed regularly, can help strengthen the immune system. Its antibacterial properties help ward off infections, while its antioxidants support overall health. Some research suggests that honey can also help alleviate seasonal allergies by gradually exposing the body to pollen.
How to Use:
· Take a teaspoon of raw, local honey daily to potentially help with allergies.
· Stir honey into herbal teas like echinacea or elderberry to support immune health.
Conclusion: A Spoonful of Wellness
Honey is more than just a sweet treat; it is a powerhouse of health benefits. Whether you’re looking to soothe a cough, boost your energy, or improve gut health, honey has you covered. When choosing honey, opt for raw, organic varieties to maximize its health benefits. Keep in mind honey is not safe for children under the age of one due to the risk of botulism. Parents should consult with their pediatrician on when it’s an appropriate time to introduce their child to honey.
So go ahead — add a little honey to your life and enjoy both its flavor and its health benefits.
Resources: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5424551/ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/the-benefits-of-honey-how-to-incorporate-it-into-your-diet
