Honey has been used for centuries as a natural sweetener and a home remedy for various ailments. According to a health expert, honey has antimicrobial properties and may help with certain skin conditions. However, it is important to note that honey is still a concentrated source of sugar and too much sugar is not a healthy choice. One tablespoon of honey contains 16 grams of sugar.
Honey is also rich in health-promoting plant compounds known as polyphenols. These compounds have antioxidant properties that help neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS) in your body, which can build up in cells and cause damage. This damage can contribute to conditions like premature aging, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.
Here are some of the potential health benefits of honey:
- Antibacterial properties: Honey has been shown to have antibacterial properties that can help fight infections.
- Wound healing: Honey has been used for centuries to treat wounds and burns.
- Soothes sore throat and cough: Honey has been found to be effective in soothing sore throat and cough symptoms.
- May help with allergies: Some studies suggest that consuming honey may help reduce allergy symptoms.
- May improve digestion: Honey has prebiotic properties that can help improve gut health.
Please note that honey should not be given to babies younger than 12 months old due to the risk of botulism poisoning. Also, honey is still a concentrated source of sugar and should be consumed in moderation as part of a healthy diet.