Is Wayanaden Raw Honey, a better sugar alternative!

March 20, 2020

Wayanaden Raw honey is always a better option to use as it is tasty, and also because raw honey comes with a lot of health benefits when compared to refined sugar. Both raw honey and sugar are relatively high in calories and carbs - in fact, raw honey has more calories per gram because it's also sweeter than sugar - but the benefits of those calories is what counts.

Refined sugar is just that: 100% simple carbohydrates from sucrose (50% fructose and 50% glucose). Raw Honey, on the other hand, is made up of approximately 40% fructose and 30% glucose, with the rest being made up from water, pollen, and other nutrients that refined sugar lacks. That's why Raw honey has these fun bonus health benefits:

Lower Glycemic Index

As raw honey is lower in fructose and contains other trace minerals, our body process and absorb it more slowly than refined sugar. This means long-lasting energy and a slightly less harm to the blood sugar level, which is good for your body and for better digestion.

Raw Honey has a lower Glycemic Index value than sugar, ie., it does not raise blood sugar level as quick as what sugar do. Honey is sweeter than sugar, so you may use less of it, but is does have slightly more calories per tablespoon so it's wise to keep a close eye on your portion sizes.

For diabetics or those trying to manage their blood sugar levels, there is no real advantage to substitute sugar for honey as both will ultimately affect blood sugar levels. If you do prefer honey, try to choose only raw honey, which contains more vitamins, enzymes, antioxidants and nutrients than white sugar and use it in moderation. Check with your doctor or dietician before adding honey in your diabetes diet.

More Vitamins & Minerals

A serving of raw honey contains few vitamins as well as calcium, potassium, zinc, selenium, iron, and manganese. Sugar offers nothing when it comes to extra nutrients!

Digestive Enzymes and Probiotics

Bees themselves have a serious array of beneficial bacteria within their own guts, and these probiotic bacteria can also be found in raw honey. These may help support lactic acid bacteria found in the human gut, along with various enzymes that may aid in digestion.

Antimicrobial/Antiseptic Properties

We have all heard the advice to drink hot water with honey and lemon for a sore throat or cough, and it turns out to be good always. Studies have shown raw honey can fight a number of strains of bacteria and it also helps draw water out of tissue which can reduce swelling and discomfort if you have a sore throat. Refined sugar, on the other hand, is associated with increased inflammation which can cause infections to proliferate and last longer.

Possible Allergy Benefits

The idea behind using local raw honey to treat seasonal allergies is similar to the concept of getting allergy shots. By ingesting local raw honey with pollen from your area, may help your body become less sensitive to the pollen.

Honey vs. Sugar: The Bottom Line

While both honey and sugar need to be consumed in moderation, if you're looking for a way to sweeten up a treat or drink, raw honey is a clear winner when it comes to a less refined option with added health benefits and a better natural sweetner.