Wednesday, January 15, 2014

What Are The Nutritional Benefits Of Honey

By Marissa Velazquez


Honey is produced by honey bees who use the nectar from flowers which they regurgitate and evaporation occurs. The nutritional benefits of honey have been written about in Vedic, Greek, and Roman texts. It's healing properties were referred to by scientists and philosophers since ancient times.

It contains high levels of glucose, fructose, and monosaccharides. With nearly 70-80 percent sugar it is no wonder it tastes so sweet, the rest of it's composition is made up of water and minerals. It possesses antibacterial and antiseptic properties and has been used in wound management. But many of the health claims made about it have yet to be scientifically proven.

Over 4 thousand years ago it was used as an Ayurvedic medicine, they thought it would treat imbalances. It was used by pre-Ancient Egyptians to treat wounds topically. Over 5 thousand years ago Egyptians make medicinal compounds from it and the Ancient Greeks ate it to live longer. With a slightly higher pH level, it helps to inhibit bacterial growth and it possesses antioxidant properties. Depending on where it is harvested, it takes on the attributes of the local flora and water content.

There are a number of reasons why it may be good for you, it may be helpful in preventing GERD, it has been used to rehydrate infants and children with gastroenteritis, it might effect the length of time of acute diarrhea, and can be used as a substitute for in oral rehydration. It was found that it shortened the duration of bacterial diarrhea in infants and children.

People have reported the use of honey in treating wounds. Applied topically it can work like an antibiotic. It may be used to help heal burns, but this has not been proven. There is some research that shows it can minimize seasonal allergies, it is great for soothing a cough. Manuka honey was found to be effective in killing bacteria by destroying bacterial proteins. Some studies have shown it to be effective in treating MRSA infections.

Raw and organic, it is full of enzymes, minerals, and vitamins that boost the immune system and protect the body from bacteria. Congestion, sore throats, coughs, and cold and flu symptoms are kept at bay. Add 1 to 2 teaspoons to warm water every day to improve the immune system, add some fresh lemon juice and some cinnamon for an extra treat.

Looking for the ultimate organic skincare product, here it is. Apply a dab directly to blemishes and allow the skin to absorb overnight. Wash off in the morning for clearer skin. It is effective in treating, but not curing, skin conditions such as psoriasis, ring worm, and eczema. It relievers dryness and soothes inflammation.

Drinking warm water with lemon and honey first thing in the morning can flush fat, toxins, and cleanse the liver. Mixed with cinnamon, it has been shown to revitalize the veins and arteries of the heart and reduce cholesterol by 10 percent. It is used for indigestion as it relieves acidity in the stomach. It neutralizes gas and when taken before a heavy meal it can help to prevent indigestion. The nutritional benefits of honey are many, it is a great source of sugar for the body and is a fantastic energy boost.




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