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Body Plus: FYI… a taste of honey
Honey isn’t just for spreading on English muffins—in fact, its healing properties have made it one of the purest and most natural remedies for 5000 years. There’s a huge variety available, too, so no excuse for sticking to that squeezy bottle of plain old clover!
It’s an antioxidant
Ace Honey contains a host of antioxidants, which are substances that neutralize the effect of ‘free radicals,’ harmful molecules that can damage cells and have been linked to cancer and cardiovascular disease, among others. “The amount of antioxidant compounds in honey depends on its floral source,” says dietitian Natalie von Suskil. “In general, darker honeys, such as buckwheat, have higher levels than lighter honeys, such as clover. Storage and processing are factors, too: Raw honey has higher antioxidant levels, but the longer you leave it sitting in the pantry, the lower the antioxidant level, regardless of what type of honey it is.” Stir a cupful of antioxidant-rich blueberries into your morning oatmeal and then sweeten it with honey for a double dose.
It’s packed with prebiotics
Your gastrointestinal tract (GI) is full of bacteria that are essential for life and good health. Bifidobacteria are especially important, says von Suskil: “These help in preventing infectious diarrhea and may also protect against carcinogenic activity from other intestinal flora,” she explains. “One way to increase them is by consuming foods containing prebiotics, substances that increase the growth and activity of good bacteria, and honey contains a variety of substances that can function as prebiotics for certain strains of bifidobacteria.” Research conducted at Michigan State University backs this up, showing that adding honey to dairy products such as yogurt can enhance the growth and activity of bifidobacteria.
It eases ulcers
Honey may also be effective in the treatment of stomach and skin ulcers. Studies show it has antibacterial properties that are effective against helicobacter pylori, the bacteria that causes stomach ulcers. One particular variety of honey, Manuka, which hails from New Zealand, has also been effective in fighting drug-resistant bacteria. Honey therapy has proven successful in treating pressure sores, and researchers at the University of Wisconsin are currently investigating it as a treatment for diabetic ulcers of the legs and feet.
It’s a natural healer
Before the use of antibiotics, honey was used medicinally to treat wounds. “I have several patients who’ve tried it on wounds,” says local dermatologist Rob Finkelstein, D.O. “It can be a tad messy, but anecdotal evidence and documented studies show it works. We don’t know how exactly—but there’s evidence that it contains a particular enzyme that forms hydrogen peroxide and gluconic acid, both of which are known to clean wounds and help with healing.” In one study, people who used honey topically to treat wounds recovered 25 percent faster, and in Australia, a manuka-honey-based product called Medihoney is government approved for treating minor wounds and infections. Manuka honey is also used in clinical dressings in New Zealand and Britain and has been effective against MRSA (a resistant form of bacteria).
It’s not just your skin that can benefit from honey’s anti-inflammatory powers. A teaspoon of honey with a dash of lemon juice taken every couple of hours can soothe a sore throat; dilute a couple of teaspoonfuls in hot water and add a dash of lemon juice and a little root ginger to ease cold symptoms. Research is also being carried out into honey’s potential as a treatment for gum disease and cavity prevention.
It treats your skin
According to legend, Cleopatra bathed in milk and honey, and it’s used in many different lotions and potions today. The wholesome, natural image helps but it’s not all hype where honey is concerned. “Honey is a humectant,” says Finkelstein, “which means it attracts and retains moisture, and raw honey also acts as an anti-irritant.” Try whipping up this simple moisturizer: Mix together half a cup of honey with the juice from half a fresh lime and add a couple of drops of your favorite essential oil (try jojoba or jasmine for dry, sensitive skin; patchouli if you have acne). Massage the mixture into your face and body then rinse or shower off with warm water.
It boosts energy
The ancient Greeks and Romans used honey to increase strength and stamina in their athletes. Research at the University of Memphis, Tennessee, suggests that it may boost endurance levels and help tired muscles recover more quickly after heavy exercise. Honey’s carbohydrates and natural, unrefined sugars are quickly absorbed into your blood stream, so a spoonful can be a great pick-me-up if you’re feeling tired.
It helps with hangovers
The fructose in honey can speed alcohol metabolism to sober you up after a night on the town. Stir two tablespoons into a half pint of pure orange juice and add half a pint of natural yogurt. Whizz it all up in the blender and drink half before you go out and half the following morning (ouch!) for the best results.
How to have your honey and eat it, too!
Use it in cooking instead of sugar—because it’s sweeter than sugar, use less, and cut down on the water or milk you add, too, since honey is one-fifth water. It’s especially good in cakes, as it helps them stay moist
Use it to sweeten your coffee or tea
Add a dollop to fruit smoothies
Spread it on your morning toast
Drizzle a sliced banana with honey for a simple but delicious dessert
Add a couple of tablespoons to marinades for more succulent grills
Dribble it over root vegetables before roasting or sautéing
Add four tablespoons to a tub of natural yogurt and stir in chopped cucumber, shredded mint leaves and a dash of lemon for a refreshing dip
Mix one tablespoon with a tablespoon of Dijon mustard, four tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil and the juice of half a lemon, for a tasty salad dressing.
Health alert: children under the age of 1 should not be fed honey, since it may contain botulism spores that could cause severe illness.
Find out more . . .
Natalie J. von Suskil, M.S., R.D./L.D.N., Sarasota Nutrition & Fitness, 941-350-6153; www.sarasotanf.com Robert Finkelstein, D.O., Center for Skin Wellness, 6771 Professional Pkwy. W., Ste. 203, Sarasota, 941-907-7372; www.centerforskinwellness.com National Honey Board includes a honey locator so you can track down stockists for a particular type; www.honey.com Manuka Honey USA—for manuka honey and a range of wound care creams and dressings, 407-523-2205 or 800-395-2196; www.manukahoneyusa.com MediHoney is currently awaiting approval by the FDA—order online from Australia via ePharmacy, www.epharmacy.com.au Whole Foods Market stocks a range of different honeys: 1451 First St., Sarasota, 941-955-8500
—By Kate Brophy
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