Honey for weight loss: Facts and myths you need to know about | – Times of India

Honey, the “golden elixir of health,” has been praised for its enormous benefits in Ayurveda, science, and natural medicine. A popular natural sweetener, honey has been linked to a number of health advantages, most notably weight loss. Let’s examine honey’s nutritional content and potential weight loss benefits.

Nutritional breakdown and benefits of honey

A tablespoon of honey contains 64 calories, 0g fat, 0 mg sodium, 17g carbs, 17g sugars, and 0.1g protein.Additionally, it is abundant in flavonoids and other antioxidants that support general health. Because honey has a lower glycemic index than ordinary sugar, blood sugar levels rise more slowly, which helps regulate appetite and cravings.

Energy and satiety

Honey, fructose, and glucose are natural sugars that provide an energy boost and may aid with portion management. The body might burn more fat in the early hours of sleep if you take a spoonful of honey before bed.

Liver function and fat burning

By urging the liver to create glucose, honey maintains high blood sugar levels and promotes the production of hormones in the brain that burn fat. It may be possible to balance the brain signals that trigger sweet cravings by substituting honey for refined sugar.

Ways to incorporate honey into diet

There are multiple ways to include honey in your weight-loss plan:
1. Cinnamon and Honey: Mix a teaspoon of honey with a pinch of cinnamon in warm water to boost metabolism and curb cravings.
2. Honey-Lemon Water: Add a teaspoon of honey and fresh lemon juice into warm water to aid digestion.
3. Honey-infused tea: Use honey to sweeten herbal teas for a guilt-free treat.
4. Honey-oatmeal breakfast bowl: Add sliced fruits and nuts to cooked oats and drizzle with honey.
5. Honey-ginger green tea: Brew green tea and add honey and fresh ginger slices for a soothing drink.

Practical tips for using honey

Honey can be easily included into regular meals by substituting it for sugar in recipes, taking a spoonful before working out, or starting the day with honey and lemon water. Because honey is high in calories, moderation is key. Make sensible use of it in your diet.

Possible side effects of honey

Although honey has many health benefits, it should only be consumed sparingly due to its high calorie content. It is dangerous for infants under one year old because of the risk of botulism, and some adults may have allergies.
Honey’s natural sweetening qualities and health advantages make it a good supplement to any weight loss program. A healthy diet and consistent exercise are still crucial, though. Keep in mind that there isn’t a miracle way to lose weight. Mindful eating, consistent exercise, and a balanced diet are all necessary to achieve weight loss goals.