5 Sweet Health Benefits of Honey

Honey is a delicious sweet treat that's consumed by millions of people worldwide. It has a distinct flavor that complements many dishes, including muffins, pies and even tea. While most people eat honey for its flavor, though, it offers several noteworthy health benefits as well. To learn more about the health benefits of honey and why you should include it in your diet, keep reading.

#1) Lower Bad Cholesterol Levels

Studies have shown that honey, when consumed regularly, can lower bad cholesterol levels. One study found that people who consumed honey in their diet had 10% lower bad cholesterol levels on average than their counterparts. How does honey lower bad cholesterol levels exactly? It's believed that honey contains antioxidants that help regulate cholesterol levels.

#2) Antibacterial Properties

Honey has strong antibacterial properties, meaning it kills and inhibits the growth of bacteria. You might be surprised to learn, in fact, that honey stays good for centuries when properly sealed. Thanks to its antibacterial properties, honey doesn't go bad like other perishable foods. Bacteria can't survive in honey, so it's a safe food to consume.

#3) Cough Suppressant

Are you suffering from a sore throat? Whether it's from allergies or an infection, honey can help. It will coat your throat while simultaneously killing bacteria in the process. As previously mentioned, honey has antibacterial properties. Therefore, it's able to kill cough-inducing bacteria in your throat. Even if your cough is the result of allergies, though, the soft coating provided by honey will help to suppress your symptoms.

#4) Vitamins and Nutrients

While not a substitution for vegetables, honey contains a plethora of beneficial vitamins and nutrients. Among others, honey contains niacin, riboflavin, calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium and zinc. With its diverse markup of vitamins and nutrients, honey is a beneficial substance that can improve your health in many ways.

#5) Energy

Honey is an excellent source of natural sugars, so it can provide you with long-lasting energy. One tablespoon contains roughly 64 calories, nearly all of which come from its natural sugars. With its high caloric content, honey can keep you going through the day.

Of course, you should still consume honey in moderation. Like most high-calorie foods, consuming too much honey may lead to other problems like weight gain or even diabetes. As long as you consume it in moderation, though, you can reap the health benefits of this deliciously sweet substance.