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Signs of the Times Australia / NZ edition — lifestyle, health, relationships, culture, spirituality, people — published since 1886 |
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Signs of the Times Australia / NZ edition — lifestyle, health, relationships, culture, spirituality, people — published since 1886 |
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While the debate between benefits of sugar versus honey has raged for decades, new research suggests honey as the clear winner.
Unlike refined sugar, honey contains a range of minor constituents that appear to provide medicinal properties in addition to its nutrient value.
The use of honey as a sweetener dates to ancient times, being recorded in early Egyptian scrolls. It’s popularity declined with the arrival of cane sugar, but by the late 17th century honey had come to be considered a treat. (Remember the nursery rhyme: “The Queen was in her parlour eating bread and honey. . . .”)
Research has shown that certain types of honey have very good antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities. Wounds resistant to conventional medical care will often respond to honey, not only healing faster, but with less scarring. A study on New Zealand’s Manuka honey suggests it may also be useful for treating gastric ulcers and gastritis, as it inhibits the growth of the Helicobacter pylori.
Other research has shown that the antioxidant potential of honey is similar to that from fruits and vegetables, when compared on a weight basis.
All types of honey make a good substitute for refined sugar. The dark coloured ones, however, such as Manuka and Jellybush (Australia), have the highest levels of phytonutrients and antioxidants and are effective against a range of common bacteria.
If you have diabetes, research from Sydney University indicates that honeys such as Yellow Box and Stringy Bark might be best, as they have a low GI, meaning the sugar is digested and absorbed more slowly into the bloodstream.
While supermarkets stock a wide range of honey types for your Weet-Bix, pharmacies stock jars and tubes for external application, which includes Medihoney and WoundCare18+.
Click Here for a honey-inclusive treat that both you and your children will enjoy.
Extract from Signs of the Times, November 2003.
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