Nutrigold Blog 5 Benefits of Honey

5 Benefits of Honey Thanks to the hard work of bees, mankind has long treasured a golden liquid called honey. Best known as a delicious sweetener, honey is mostly a mixture of glucose and fructose sugars. Honey also has trace amounts of amino acids, antioxidants,vitamins, and minerals (niacin, ascorbic acid, thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, and zinc). These factors add up to a complex substance with many health benefits. Who would guess that something so sweet can be so good for you, too?Read on to discover some of the many health benefits honey can provide:1. Increased EnergyAre you in need of an energy boost? Honey can help. One tablespoon of honey provides 17 grams of carbohydrates, which are the body's main source of energy. One study even found that honey closely compares to the performance-enhancing effects of energy gels in competitive athletes. Even if you don't plan on running a race any time soon, try a drizzle of honey over a sliced banana or cup of yogurt as an energizing snack.2. Heals InjuriesSince ancient times, honey's healing properties have been used to treat wounds and prevent infection. The sugars and natural acidity in honey resist growth of bacteria, and when applied to a wound can reduce inflammation. For these reasons, honey can be an effective and all-natural alternative to other topical ointments when used on small cuts and scrapes.3. Moisturizes SkinFrom facials to hair masks, honey has proved for centuries to be a natural skin treatment that soothes and moisturizes. A wide array of cosmetic products contain honey, including cleansers, makeup, and hair care. Homemade honey treatments can enhance your skin's glow, too. The National Honey Board claims a honey facial as one of its most popular recipes.4. Soothes a Sore Throat and CoughWhen a sore throat or cough has you feeling down, honey may bring some sweet relief. Honey has commonly been used as a way to soothe a sore throat, but studies have also shown that honey can be just as effective as over-the-counter cough medicine to help reduce a cough. To calm a sore throat or cough, add a spoonful of honey to a cup of hot tea or warm water with lemon. For severe or persistent sore throat or cough, consult your doctor.5. Sugar SubstituteThe natural sweetness of honey makes it a healthy alternative to sugar. The taste of honey is slightly sweeter than sugar itself, so using a little can go a long way. To take advantage of honey's sweetness, add it to your morning smoothie, coffee, or tea in place of another sweetener. Honey can even replace sugar in some recipes when baking. An important safety note about honey is that honey should not be given to infants who are under the age of one. For the rest of us, though, the many health benefits of honey make for a sweet list indeed.From skincare to increased energy, discover for yourself the many benefits a simple jar of honey has to offer.