Why honey is the best option over processed sugar.
As a chiropractor, nutritional advice is a regular part of my day. Questions about a specific type of diet are numerous. However, what is interesting is that almost all patients tell me how they are eliminating sugar from their diet. Many have chosen to consume more honey instead of processed sugar. It is sometimes helpful to have the necessary information available before making these health changes.
Is sugar addictive?
Yes, maybe even more than cocaine! Sugar has an effect on the opiate receptors in our body. These receptors are linked to the reward portion of our brain and lead to compulsive behavior, although our brain is aware of the negative consequences.
Is honey a good alternative to honey?
Definitely. Honey has known positive effects on conditions such as coughs, indigestion, burns, wounds, flu, and infections. It also contains nutrients like vitamins and minerals. Honey has an extremely long shelf life and is used by many as a “superfood”.
Does honey have antibacterial properties?
Safely. Honey has an enzyme that actually turns into hydrogen peroxide when it is in the presence of oxygen. Hydrogen peroxide dissolves bacterial cell membranes, thus destroying bacteria.
Does honey burn energy like sugar?
No, honey is completely different in that respect. Unlike sugar, honey does not produce the shock and burn result. Honey burns slowly, preventing an energy surge followed by the inevitable crash. The enzymes in honey tend to help the body regulate the way it chooses to use sugar.
What diseases does sugar cause?
In addition to weight gain and eventual fatigue, processed sugar has been linked to cancer, stomach problems, diabetes, and heart disease. Remember, these illnesses are not solely due to processed sugar. Many sugar substitutes cause the same illnesses.
Will some honey do?
Of course, most honey is an improvement over processed sugar, not all honey is the same. Honey produced in an organic or pesticide-free environment is the way to go. More and more research supports the benefits of using locally produced honey. This is very beneficial for the allergy prevention properties.
Well, why isn’t honey used more?
The answer to this question can be summed up in one word, profit. Like most natural products, honey is not a registered, patented, and chemically produced trademark. Without those components, you can’t have a lot of money. Just take a look at the advertising aimed at consumers, especially children! Everything has processed sugar and feeds on our senses and emotions. A company cannot monopolize the market for a natural product such as honey. If they ever do, take a look at the full ingredient list!
To your health,
Greg Gruba DC