A few years ago I was in Bozeman, Montana for vacation and I walked into the cutest honey shop. This is when I got hooked on raw honey straws! Raw honey has so many wonderful benefits to your health, so really it’s a great obsession to have.
Raw honey straight from the beehive is filled with healthy bee pollen, bee propolis, and TONS of antioxidants. Though research hasn’t fully confirmed raw honey is anymore beneficial than regular honey, after honey goes through all its processing and pasteurization it is said to believe it loses some of its many glorious elements.
Raw Honeys Glorious Benefits
One thing raw honey is known for is being full of antioxidants. Natural honey contains a wide range of compounds such as phytochemicals, flavonoids, and ascorbic acid. These all act as antioxidants and help reduce oxidative stress in your body. Research has linked oxidative stress to a wide variety of health conditions including most cancers. By sticking to a diet rich in antioxidants, people can help reduce their risk of these chronic diseases.
Nutrition
Natural honey also contains small amounts of numerous nutrients. One tablespoon or 21 grams contains 64 calories and 16 grams of natural sugar. Natural sugar is still sugar though so be careful. One serving also contains niacin, riboflavin, pantothenic acid, calcium, magnesium, manganese, potassium, phosphorus, and zinc. Those who have diabetes may choose to replace sugar with honey but in moderation to avoid significant changes in their blood sugar levels. However, some research suggests that raw honey could potentially offer a protective effect against diabetes and some types of raw honey may help improve cholesterol levels.
Antibacterial and Antimicrobial
Honey is also known as a natural antibacterial and antimicrobial agent. Because raw honey contains hydrogen peroxide, glucose oxidase, and has a low pH level it can kill harmful bacteria and fungi. Raw honey also has a unique chemical composition and because of it, it does not help yeast or bacteria grow. Because of this antibacterial property, people can and have used it to clean wounds.
Brain Power
Lastly, some evidence points to honey benefiting the brain due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory powers. A study done in animals found rats who consumed honey had protection against brain damage when exposed to lead. A scientific review also showed raw honey containing ingredients that fight inflammation in the hippocampus. This is the part of the brain involved in memory.
Other benefits of raw honey include treating coughs and diarrhea.
Choosing Your Honey
Find honey that has a “raw honey” label. If the label on the bottle does not read “raw” that means it does not come from a bee-farm or beekeeper. The label may also have information about the flowers used for pollination. Based on the flower the taste, color, and antioxidant content will be determined. Always check the labels to see where your honey comes from and what may or may not have been added. The best place to buy raw honey is your local farmers market, though some stores do carry raw honey.
