Honey, which is delicious and also healthy, stands out as an important food consumed in many different meals. Used as a sweetener and preservative, honey also stands out for its positive effects on mood. So, what are the benefits of honey, and what should be considered when consuming it?
Boosts the Immune System
Honey has properties that can strengthen your immune system against winter illnesses and the flu. It contains substances with antioxidant activity, which have a positive effect on reducing inflammation and promoting wound healing. Pine honey, in particular, stands out for addressing nutritional deficiencies with its iron and magnesium content. Honey also contains beneficial vital substances such as vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and enzymes. Its antimicrobial and antifungal effects disinfect wounds and prevent bacterial and fungal growth. Rich in vitamins and minerals, honey optimally strengthens the immune system. Honey containing vitamin C also provides calcium, which strengthens bones. Iron in honey, which benefits the circulatory system, contributes to strengthening the immune system through its diverse content.
Consuming honey increases the number of red blood cells in the body, leading to better oxygenation of the blood. This improves efficiency when the oxygen level rises. Honey helps keep bacteria and diseases at bay, boosting your energy levels and making exercise easier. It also positively affects your mood due to its high mineral content. Honey with high mineral content helps alleviate iron deficiency in children.
It has Antibacterial Properties
Although honey contains a sugary content, it has a different composition compared to the white sugar you use in your daily life. Real honey containing natural sugars is also used for medical purposes. Clinical tests on honey, which is used as an antibacterial and disinfectant, have shown that pure honey is beneficial for ulcers and some other wounds. Honey is also recommended as a supportive treatment for asthma. When used as a prebiotic, honey should not be mixed with probiotics like yogurt, which support the intestines during the digestive process and promote healthy bacteria formation. Prebiotics increase the amount of healthy bacteria in your body, contributing significantly to the health of the gastrointestinal system. Honey is often recommended for the improvement of intestinal flora, as well as for reducing symptoms related to ulcers and gastritis.
Honey, which can alleviate skin conditions such as dermatitis and dandruff, is among the substances that benefit the affected skin. Especially when conditions like coughing occur in children, honey is recommended as a helpful food. Honey provides a quick energy boost, making it a preferred choice among athletes. Honey positively influences red blood cells, enhancing your body’s overall performance and vitality.
How to recognise fake honey?
To distinguish between genuine and fake honey, you can try various methods for comb, strained, natural, and organic honeys. However, the most accurate and reliable method is laboratory analysis. If you want to test honey yourself, the first step is to check its packaging. If stored honey has crystallized, it’s likely not fake because crystallization is a natural process in real honey. Contrary to common belief, genuine honey sometimes crystallizes as well. The color of fake honey may be slightly lighter than real honey.
To avoid buying fake honey, pay attention to brand guarantees. Opt for brands with positive customer feedback to ensure you’re getting natural and genuine honey. This way, you won’t encounter any issues regarding the benefits of honey and can make the most of its advantages.