18/04/2016
HONEY’S MORE THAN SUGAR-SWEET
Honey, nature’s original sweetener, is being rediscovered as a natural source of energy that also offers a unique combination of nutritional benefits. Sugars are the fundamental unit of energy for our bodies. All carbohydrates, whether simple sugars or complex carbohydrates, must be broken down to glucose, or blood sugar, before our bodies can use them as energy. The sugars in honey are primarily glucose and fructose and although the body absorbs them in different manners, both provide the body with quick energy. Recent studies suggest that this unique mixture of sugars which occurs naturally in honey, works best in preventing fatigue and enhancing athletic performance.
In addition to being a concentrated energy source, honey contains a wide array of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and amino acids. In a recent review of related literature, Dr. Susan Percival of the University of Florida’s Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition found honey contains vitamins, such as vitamin B6, thiamin, riboflavin and pantothenic acid. Essential minerals, such as calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, sodium and zinc are also found in honey. "In addition, several different amino acids, the building blocks of protein, have been identified in honey." says Dr. Percival. "Honey also contains several compounds that function as antioxidants, one of which is unique to honey called pinocembrin." Although these substances appear in trace amounts and vary depending on the honey’s floral source, they contribute to your overall nutrition intake.
For a quick source of energy and to reap the benefits of honey’s healthful properties, make honey part of your daily diet along with plenty of fruits and vegetables. Use honey to sweeten your oatmeal or drizzle it over a grapefruit half. Add honey and fresh fruit to low-fat yogurt for an energy-sustaining snack or stir a spoonful of honey into a glass of water before your daily workout.
Fruit Smoothie (Makes 4 servings)
1 pint fresh strawberries, stemmed and sliced or 2 cups frozen strawberries, slightly thawed
1 cup 1% milk
1 cup (8 ounces) plain or vanilla low-fat yogurt
1/2 cup honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup crushed ice (5-6 cubes)
In a blender or food processor container, combine all ingredients; process until smooth. Serve immediately. For variety, use 2 cups any fresh or frozen fruit or combination of fruits such as sliced strawberries and bananas or sliced peaches and whole raspberries.
Nutrients Per Serving: (1/4 of recipe): calories 220; total fat 2 g; total carbohydrate 48 g; cholesterol 6 mg; sodium 78 mg; dietary fiber 1 g; protein 6 g; calories from fat 7%.
REMEDIES & THERAPIES
Honey in water is a quick energy drink for overworked people and athletes. It helps regain lost energy almost instantly.
Honey and lemon juice mixed in equal quantities and mixed together by gentle heating is excellent for a sore throat .
A jug of honey held under the nose of an asthma patient, so that he inhales the air which is in contact with the honey has been shown to ease the asthma patients breathing.
The effect only lasts an hour but the relief is instantaneous. - the best honey for asthmatic cures is one that is harvested by bees on hill slopes where there are plenty of conifers.
One tablespoon of honey with lemon juice taken regularly in the morning before breakfast helps to keep the complexion clear and helps in reducing weight.
One of the most ancient antiseptics used by man was honey- excellent on cuts and wounds.
Immediate application of honey on burns prevents the formation of blisters. It also subdues the burning sensation and prevents septic conditions.
Beeswax mixed with a little buttermilk should be heated till the wax melts. Add this to hot water to help ease constipation.
Half a teaspoon each of ginger, lemon juice and honey provides relief from nausea & dizziness.
One part beeswax to 4 parts honey has been used for the treatment of ulcers.
Soak 10 almonds in water overnight, remove the skin in the morning and take them with two tablespoons of honey- this is supposed to stimulate the brain cells.
Honey is good in cases of malnutrition and is prescribed for general physical repair- honey kills bacteria and strengthens the immune system.