Honey Health Benefits, Raw Honey vs Sugar

It may be surprising, but honey and sugar are not that much different when it comes to nutritional value. Sugar has been the preferred sweetener in our modern society for as long as most of us can remember. Honey has been around since the beginning of time, it seems.While many people make an effort to substitute some of the sugar in their diet with honey, they may not really know why.

Some of the benefits of honey are based on science, and some are based on traditions. Honey has been used in medicines and spiritual ceremonies for centuries. While all of the benefits of honey are not scientifically proven, they must still be considered. In many cases, the research simply has not been done in order to prove or disprove the benefits. This doesn't mean the benefits aren't real, they are just not yet proven by scientific research.

The fact is, there is not much difference in the nutritional values of sugar and honey. It is important to note that between the two, honey contains a higher level of minerals and even a little vitamin C. Honey also contains some other trace vitamins along with natural antioxidants and enzymes. Aside from a higher level of minerals, honey has a nutritional value very similar to sugar.

Most commercial honey, like the kind from your grocery store, will be pasteurized. This is a heat treatment used to prevent crystallization and to kill yeast spores. Raw honey is merely honey that has not been pasteurized, only strained or filtered. Raw honey is normally available at farmer's markets and some specialty markets. I recommend finding a good local beekeeper you can trust as your source of raw honey.

Raw honey has been traditionally used to treat high blood pressure, cough, sore throat, and to boost the immune system. Having antibacterial properties, raw honey has also been used for centuries as a wound and burn dressing.

There has been tons of research involving the processes in which honey helps aid healing. Honey has a number of proven medicinal benefits and is still used for it's healing powers all over the world.

Raw honey is rich in natural antioxidants and enzymes, which help over all health by neutralizing free radicals in the body. Some believe the antioxidants and enzymes found in raw honey may even slow the aging process. While there isn't a lot of research to support this age slowing effect, natural antioxidants are considered an important part of a healthy diet.

The natural enzymes in raw honey are said to aid digestion and boost the immune system. Honey contains some of the same natural enzymes produced by the human body during digestion. Introduction of additional enzymes through honey consumption helps improve digestion.

Honey can also be used as a sleep aid for those suffering from insomnia. Raw honey contains tryptophan, the same thing that is in turkey that makes you sleepy. There is a lot of science behind it all, but the key is that a spoonful of honey before bedtime will help you fall asleep. It is considered a healthy alternative to chemical sleep aids.

Although it makes a great sleep aid, raw honey is also an excellent energy booster. Many athletes take raw honey before a workout or performance. Honey provides a ton of carbohydrates to help feed the muscles. Honey is also the perfect post workout recovery snack. The athletes of the world have long known about the energy boosting benefits raw honey can provide.

When compared side by side, honey wins all the way. Raw honey not only offers all the same nutritional value of sugar, it goes above and beyond. Providing you with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and enzymes, raw honey is a welcome addition to any healthy diet.