One sweet snack

JCC Indianapolis sells honey
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by Katherine Matutes, Ph.D.

Honey has been consumed for centuries by many cultures for it's natural sweetening properties and its reported health benefits.

Today, new scientific studies are beginning to confirm honey’s promise as health-providing ingredient.

Here are some of honey’s great impacts:

• Honey is high in flavonoids, which provide anti-oxidant power to help reduce the risk of heart disease and certain types of cancer.

• A reduction in reported numbers and severity of ulcers has been attributed to honey's powerful anti-bacterial properties. 

• Honey's antibacterial power comes from its hydrogen peroxide content, which is produced by an enzyme that bee's posses. 

• Studies show that honey applied to skin wounds aid in the reduction of infections and result in more rapid healing.

• Honey has long been used to reduce sore throat discomfort and to ease coughing, which has recently been supported by studies showing honey to be as effective as dextromethorphan in suppressing nighttime coughs. 

• Honey is a natural probiotic, because it boasts many gut friendly bacteria that can enhance the native gut flora responsible for good digestion. 

• Locally sourced honey can be a homeopathic treatment for allergies, because local pollen will be contained in the final product and provide a mild form of immunotherapy.

This list may be just the beginning. So, enjoy honey's sweetness AND it's health-giving benefits!

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