Health benefits of honey and its nutritional value

Honey, the thick and sweet liquid produced by bees using rose nectar, is a staple in many households.

Known for its varying colour, clarity, and taste, honey owes its unique qualities to the type of rose nectar it is made from.

The high levels of fructose, glucose, and monosaccharides in honey, which make up 70-80% of its content, contribute to its distinct sweetness.

Honey’s health benefits are vast, as it is not only antibacterial and antiseptic but also contains essential nutrients for human health. The following highlights some of the key advantages of honey.

1. Helps in treating wounds and burns
   Since ancient times, honey has been used in alternative medicine for treating burns and promoting wound healing. A study published in The Cochrane Library confirmed honey’s effectiveness in disinfecting and healing wounds. The study's lead researcher stated that honey’s low cost has made it a popular treatment for these conditions for centuries.

2. Reducing the duration of diarrhea
   Honey has proven beneficial in alleviating the severity of diarrhoea and shortening its duration. It is particularly helpful during such episodes because it increases the intake of water and potassium, both crucial for maintaining bodily function.

3. Reducing the problem of esophageal reflux
   Honey plays a significant role in reducing esophageal reflux by controlling the leakage of digestive juices from the stomach into the esophagus. This helps in protecting individuals from gastroesophageal reflux and its associated symptoms.

4. Treating cold and cough symptoms
   The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends honey as a home remedy for treating colds and coughs. Research has found that honey is particularly effective in treating nighttime coughs, thereby improving sleep quality during illness.

5. Other benefits of honey
   Apart from its aforementioned benefits, honey offers numerous additional health advantages, including:

• Fighting infections

• Serving as an excellent energy source

• Reducing high body fat levels

• Promoting digestive health and preventing various digestive issues

• Maintaining oral and dental health

• Benefiting the skin and hair

• Fighting bad breath

• Eliminating hiccups

Nutritional values of honey
According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), 100 grams of honey contains:

• Calories: 167

• Fat: 6.67 grams

• Carbohydrates: 26.67 grams

• Sugars: 20 grams

• Dietary Fibre: 3.3 grams

• Sodium: 833 milligrams

Honey warnings
Although honey is safe for most people, there are certain risks to be aware of.

1. Infant food poisoning
   It is crucial not to give honey to children under the age of one, as it can pose a health risk. Honey contains dust particles that may carry bacteria causing food poisoning, and infants lack a strong immune system to fight these bacteria.

2. Allergies
   While honey allergies are rare, they can occur, especially due to the presence of bee pollen, a mixture of pollen and digestive enzymes from bees. For those with allergies, this could result in a severe allergic reaction.