Honey is one of the oldest natural sweeteners on Earth and not only does it taste delicious, it also comes with a surprisingly high number of health benefits.

Rich in antioxidants: One of the biggest benefits of honey is that it is rich in antioxidants, including phenols, compounds like flavonoids and organic acids, as well as enzymes. These antioxidants have been linked to preventing a wide range of ailments including the risk of heartaches and strokes, as well as helping to lower blood pressure and giving your brain a boost (it can help prevent cognitive decline).

It’s a good alternative to sugar: Refined sugar is not good for the body, so if you want to add sweetness to your diet, honey is a better alternative. Honey has a lower GI, which means it does not raise your blood sugar levels so dramatically. In addition, honey is also a healthy alternative as it contains vitamins like iron, magnesium, and potassium, while sugar does not.

It can heal wounds: According to RealFoodForLife, applying honey to wounds can actually help them to heal. It is believed that this is due to the combination of simple sugars, which dry out a wound, and the antibacterial properties found in honey.

Helps with irritations: Honey, in particular, buckwheat honey, is also a great product to take when you have a cold, and it can reportedly help to soothe a throat irritation or a cough.

It can help with pollen allergies: The anti-inflammatory properties found in honey can help with allergies. According to WellBeingSecrets, because honey contains tiny bits of pollen it can help you to build up a resistance against pollen in the environment by producing antibodies, which over time could ultimately help alleviate the symptoms of pollen allergies.

Helps to get a good night sleep: This is reportedly due to the sweetness of honey, which will make your insulin levels rise and release serotonin. Your body will then convert the serotonin to melatonin to help make you sleepy.

Pro tip: If you’re going to consume honey, try to opt for raw honey which has not been filtered and pasteurized and has therefore not lost some of its nutritional value.

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