“The Health Benefits and Risks of Honey: Lowering Blood Pressure and Aiding Digestion, but Beware Allergies”

Honey is one of the foods that are good to eat anywhere. You can enjoy it with a variety of foods, from toast, oatmeal, yogurt, fruit, and even a cup of tea. It is also used in place of sugar. What are the health benefits of honey, which adds a sweet taste to many foods? It was introduced in the US health information media ‘Eat This, Not That’.

1. It has antibacterial properties

You’ve probably heard that when you’re sick, try adding a tablespoon or two of honey to a cup of tea. Honey has antibacterial properties. This means it can help fight against bacteria, fungi and viruses. According to a study published in the British Journal of Surgery (BJS), honey is effective in healing infected wounds.

2. Rich in antioxidants

Honey is rich in antioxidants that can help protect the body from free radical damage. Free radicals are unstable molecules that cause cell damage and can contribute to chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease and Alzheimer’s disease. According to the journal Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity, these antioxidant properties of honey are also associated with reduced chronic inflammation.

3. It can soothe a sore throat

When you have a sore throat, honey can provide some relief. According to a study published in the Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, honey is more effective than cough medicine at relieving cough and sore throat symptoms in children.

4. May Help Digestion

Honey can help with digestion and intestinal health. Honey has been found to aid in digestion by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. A study published in Frontiers in Nutrition found that honey has the effect of stimulating the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut.

5. May Help Lower Blood Pressure

A number of studies have shown the potential effects of honey on cardiovascular health. According to the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, honey has been found to improve heart rate, regulate blood fat levels and help prevent the death of healthy cells in the body. Another study published in the journal ‘Clinical Hypertension’ found that consumption of moderate amounts of honey was associated with lower blood pressure in women over the age of 40.

6. Doesn’t spike blood sugar as much as other types of sugar

Especially for those who are concerned about controlling their blood sugar levels, using natural sweeteners as an alternative to regular sugar may be a healthier option. Sugar and honey are very similar in terms of calorie and sugar content. However, honey does not cause blood sugar spikes after consumption, and promotes healthy insulin activity and blood sugar levels.

Potential Side Effects of Honey

1. High in calories

As mentioned earlier, natural sweeteners do not raise blood sugar as rapidly as other types of sugar. However, the calories in one tablespoon of honey are still high at about 64 calories, so you should consume them in moderation.

2. Allergic reactions can occur

Honey has few side effects, but a potential allergic reaction can occur. People allergic to honey may experience symptoms such as hives, itching, and swelling. In severe cases, it can cause a life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention called anaphylaxis.

3. There is a risk of infant botulism

It can be dangerous for children under 1 year of age to consume honey. Honey may contain spores of the bacteria that cause botulism, which can grow and produce toxins in infants’ intestines that can lead to serious illness or even death.