Raw honey is a delicious alternative to processed sugars. Raw honey is left unpasteurized and unfiltered so it retains its nutritional integrity. It’s important to select local, raw honey when possible to reap the maximum benefits.
The average American consumes more than 150 pounds of refined sugar as well as more than 60 pounds of high fructose corn syrup each year. However, the average American still only consumes 1.3 pounds of honey every year. Studies have shown that by simply replacing the processed sugars in your diet with raw honey, you can do wonders for your health and body inside and out.
One of the main health benefits of raw honey is that it contains numerous antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. In addition, raw honey contains a multitude of antioxidants. Together, these properties work to neutralize free radicals in the body as well as to boost the immune system. In fact, one study found that when people consume an extra four tablespoons of honey a day for roughly one month, their blood contained an increased level of one of the types of antioxidants honey contains known as polyphenols. In addition, by neutralizing free radicals in the body, raw honey can actively work to eliminate cancerous and otherwise malignant cells. This makes raw honey offer serious medicinal benefits.
Raw honey also contains bee pollen. This is another advantage given to consumers as bee pollen is known to help the body fight infection, provide allergy relief as well as boost the immune system similar to antioxidants. If you have bad seasonal allergies, make sure to buy local raw honey as the very pollens you are allergic to will be present in the honey. This helps to lower your sensitivity to the pollens and therefore decrease allergic reactions and symptoms. Some health professionals have even stated that eating a tablespoon of local, raw honey every day can have very similar effects to that of a traditional allergy shot.
Consuming raw honey before bedtime has also shown to be an effective treatment for restless sleep as well as insomnia. One of the ways that honey helps promote better sleep is by restocking the glycogen supply in the liver. In some cases, waking up frequently can be caused by the body going into a sort of crisis mode while looking for fuel. The other way that raw honey helps sleep is by promoting the release of melatonin in the brain by slightly increasing insulin levels. This small insulin spike stimulates the brain to releasee tryptophan, which is then converted into serotonin and finally to melatonin.
Honey can also be used as a healing aid. There have been many cases of raw honey being infused into bandages to speed up the healing process. This is due to honeys antibacterial properties. Honey actually reacts with the body’s elements and makes hydrogen peroxide which kills off bacteria.
As you can see, raw honey offers numerous health benefits and has many applications. By simply adding small doses to your diet you can benefit as well. Start by simply replacing processed sugars and artificial sweeteners with this delicious alternative and you’re sure to feel a difference.
