6 Replies to Why Is Honey Good For You? (#4 is Wow!)
Many people often ask "Why is honey good for you?", "Is this sweetener really more superior than table sugar?". The answer is a clear "Yes!"
1. It is Nutritious for You!
A much healthier choice than over-processed, factory-made table sugar table sugar and empty-calorie artificial sweeteners which do not have any vitamins or whatsoever nutrients, this natural liquid from the honey bees contains many vitamins like B6, thiamin, niacin, riboflavin, pantothenic acid and certain amino acids and minerals including calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, sodium and zinc.
2. It is a Healthy Food Choice!
Honey has a healthy Glycemic Index (GI), meaning that its sugars can be gradually absorbed into the bloodstream to result in better digestion. Eating excessive high-glycemic foods prompts an elevated insulin release in our body as a result of the pancreas being stimulated to metabolize the sudden surge of glucose into the blood.
3. It Builds Your Immunity Against Sicknesses!
Honey contains natural antioxidant properties that can destroy biologically destructive chemical agents which have been linked to many diseases such as cancer. Not only could honey's antioxidants help to eliminate free radicals in the body, they are also part of the nutrient supply for growth of new tissue. Because of this, for centuries, honey has been used all over the world in different cultures as a natural cure for many ailments, and traditionally as an effective home remedy, for instance the honey and apple cider vinegar tonic which is used for treating arthritis and bad breath.
4. It is the Most Ideal Food for Your Brain When You Sleep!
Honey is the gold standard for fuelling our brain everyday during the night fast when we sleep. Our liver makes glycogen from fructose and glucose in equal amount, and honey is the best food you can find for your brain because it has the the perfect 1:1 ratio of fructose and glucose. No other food can produce more liver glycogen per gram than honey. Honey immediately turns into glycogen storage, unlike glucose alone which goes into our blood without liver intervention, raising the blood sugar. The excessive levels of insulin released drive the glucose into the muscles and fat cells, where it will be stored as fat.
Honey promotes a deep and restorative sleep for you and optimizes your metabolism as your liver goes to work, breaking down the toxins stored in fat cells. Details in: Honey is the Best Brain Fuel.
5. It Energizes You!
This perhaps is the most common reply kids get from their parents when they ask "why is honey good for you?" A great natural source of carbohydrates which provide strength and energy to our bodies, honey is known for its effectiveness in instantly boosting the performance, endurance and reduce muscle fatigue of athletes. Its natural fruit sugars, fructose and glucose plays an important role in preventing fatigue during exercise and are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream digested by the body. Also, honey is free of cholesterol and it has been reported that adding small amounts of it in the daily diet could even help keep cholesterol levels in check.
6. It Beautifies You!
This anti-aging benefit of honey is probably the best reply to "Why is honey good for you?" There exist a huge number of honey products in the market for hair care, baby care, skin care for sunscreen, hand lotions, facial scrubs and moisturizers. Honey's hygroscopic properties also make it an ideal cosmetic ingredient as it helps keep skin hydrated and fresh and prevents drying. Its natural antioxidant and anti-microbial properties also support the skin's ability to rejuvenate and refresh depleted skin, leaving it feeling silky soft and supple.