Honey, a natural and diverse food component produced by honey bees (Apis mellifera), has gained popularity for its numerous health benefits. In a recent review published in Nutrients, researchers conducted a comprehensive analysis of 48 clinical trials to evaluate the impact of honey consumption on human health. The findings reveal that honey exhibits a wide range of positive effects, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral, and antibacterial properties. This article aims to summarize the key findings from the review and shed light on the remarkable health benefits associated with honey consumption.
Cardiometabolic Benefits: One of the notable findings of the review is the cardiometabolic benefits of honey consumption. The high concentration of phenolic components in honey, such as syringic acid, gallic acid, and quercetin, contributes to its positive impact on cardiovascular health. Regular consumption of natural and unprocessed honey has been shown to reduce triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels while increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels in healthy individuals. Similarly, honey consumption among obese individuals led to significant reductions in C-reactive protein (CRP), body weight (BW), body fat (BF), and body mass index (BMI).
Antidiabetic Effects: Honey also demonstrates promising antidiabetic effects. Different types of honey, including Tualang honey and natural honey, have been found to lower fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels and body weight (BW) among individuals with type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, unprocessed clover honey has shown potential in reducing HbA1c levels and improving glucose control in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes patients.
Antimicrobial and Anticancer Properties: The review highlights the antimicrobial and anticancer properties of honey. Honey has been found to possess inhibitory effects against various bacteria, including Candida species. Mouthwashes or rinse-and-swallow applications with honey can reduce Candida colonization, oral dryness, and dysphagia. Additionally, honey types such as natural Iranian Baran-Baghro honey, thyme honey, and active manuka honey have shown efficacy in reducing mucositis severity among head and neck cancer patients.
Respiratory Health and Sleep Improvement: Honey intake has been associated with respiratory health benefits. It has been shown to lower cough frequency and severity, particularly when consumed in forms such as buckwheat honey. Honey's soothing properties can help alleviate cough symptoms and improve sleep quality, making it a natural remedy for common respiratory ailments.
Wound Healing and Skin Health: Honey's therapeutic effects extend to wound healing and skin health. It has been shown to improve wound healing and reduce the size, grade, and stage of diabetic foot ulcers. Honey application, particularly clover honey, has been found effective in reducing bacterial infection and inflammation. Moreover, honey use has been associated with improved ocular surface quality, reduced microbial burden, and relief from dry eye symptoms among individuals with blepharitis.
Conclusion: The comprehensive review on honey's impact on human health demonstrates its immense potential as a beneficial food component. Regular honey consumption has been linked to a wide range of health benefits, including cardiometabolic improvements, antidiabetic effects, antimicrobial and anticancer properties, respiratory health benefits, wound healing, and skin health enhancement. With its rich composition of sugars, proteins, organic acids, enzymes, minerals, phenolic compounds, and vitamins, honey presents itself as a natural and nutritious addition to a balanced diet. However, it is important to note that individual responses to honey may vary, and moderation in consumption is advised, especially for individuals with specific health conditions. Further research is warranted to explore the mechanisms underlying honey's beneficial effects and optimize its use as a therapeutic agent.
Journal Reference: Palma-Morales, M., Huertas, J., & Rodríguez-Pérez, C. (2023). A Comprehensive Review of the Effect of Honey on Human Health. Nutrients, 15(13), 3056. doi: 10.3390/nu15133056.
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