According to a recent study published in Nutrition Reviews, consuming raw honey from a single floral source may enhance blood sugar control and reduce cholesterol levels when consumed in conjunction with a healthy diet.
According to a news release from Tauseef Khan, a senior researcher on the project and a research associate in nutritional sciences at the Temerty Faculty of Medicine at the University of Toronto, “these results are surprising considering honey is around 80% sugar.”
If you already avoid sugar, we’re not suggesting that you start consuming honey, said Khan.
“Replacement is more the takeaway,” he said.
In the same press release, he stated that substituting honey for table sugar, syrup, or another sweetener “may lessen cardio-metabolic risks.”
The authors of the study stated that honey is a complex mixture of sugars (both common and uncommon), organic acids, enzymes, proteins, amino acids, minerals, vitamins, and bioactive compounds that are created by honeybees from the nectar of flowers.
Both sugar and honey are carbohydrates. According to Emma Laing, PhD, RDN, they are both composed of glucose and fructose, but they each have unique nutritional, texture, and flavor characteristics.
She serves as the University of Georgia’s dietetics program director and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics’ national spokeswoman.
According to some nutritional criteria, honey is promoted as “healthier,” “She spoke. However, given flavor and price, sugar can be preferred.
“Sweeteners in general are frequently thought to be unhealthy, although taking small amounts should not produce adverse effects in the majority of people,” she said.
However, excessive use of these substances can result in considerable changes in blood sugar, gastrointestinal discomfort, and a higher risk of tooth decay.
Additionally, according to Laing, some people may be allergic to particular components of honey, and honey is not suitable for babies under the age of one year.
According to prior studies, a rise in obesity, Type 2 diabetes, and heart disease has been linked to a high intake of free sugars.
According to Laing, who spoke to Fox News Digital, “the American Dietary Guidelines for Americans propose that no more than 10% of total daily calories come from sugar, including honey.”