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More Nutritional Benefits Of Honey Are Continuously Being Discovered

By Leanne Goff


The myriad nutritional benefits of honey far exceed a pleasant taste. Unfortunately, a high number of consumers do not realize exactly how many health benefits are associated with the substance. As one would suspect, similar to any sweet food, honeycomb should be used in moderation. However, when one does not consume it excessively, it may offer a considerable number of health benefits.

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.

A good example of the product's many advantages is its anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties. An ingredient called methylglyoxal is responsible for this effect. Methylglyoxal is a substance that has been scientifically proven to fight off various bacterial and viral infections. Therefore, those suffering from colds or other illnesses commonly experienced in the winter season may wish to have that traditional cup of tea with honey in order to speed their recovery.

Certain kinds of honeycomb also contain antiseptic properties. This is especially true regarding Manuka honey. This variety is harvested from the shrub of the same name, into which bees construct honeycombs. This version of the substance can be put directly on a wound without risking infection. It also contains properties that can 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 currently underway to discover whether or not the aforementioned substance can enhance the human immune system. Studies have shown that this may be the case. In some areas of the world, where different kinds of honeycomb are used regularly, people appear to be more resilient to sickness and may have stronger 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.

Due to the numerous nutritional benefits of honey, certain consumers who are health conscious invest in organic varieties of the substance. The organic variety is the best choice for such consumers. Such products can be bought in conventional stores or online. However, before completing a transaction or entering personal information such as credit card numbers, one should thoroughly research the website. Finally, any dietary changes should always be discussed with one's family doctor.




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