Honey appeared on Earth before humans, the bee living on our planet for several tens of millions of years… Widely used in Pharaonic Egypt, it played its role as sugar, but was also used to heal (burns, wounds…), beautify and embalm the dead. Practices which have continued, since during the two world wars, nurses applied it to soldiers’ wounds in order to accelerate healing.
But honey is also a pure concentrate of energy which constitutes a barrier against the slump and can even have (among other positive effects) an appetite suppressant effect. This is why Deepali Sharma, dietician and Ayurvedic nutrition specialist, advises drinking a glass of lukewarm water with honey every morning upon waking up.
What are the main benefits of honey?
Honey contains many minerals and trace elements, such as magnesium, potassium, zinc, manganese, silicon, sulfur, but also vitamins (C and B) and enzymes that strengthen the metabolism and the immune system with a anti-inflammatory effect. But its main interest is linked to the presence of antioxidant substances such as polyphenols and antibiotics called inhibins, which provide good protection for the body’s cells.
THE good reasons to include a glass of lukewarm water with honey to your morning routine?
#1 It boosts immunity
Honey is rich in antioxidants and has antimicrobial properties. Combining it with lukewarm water can strengthen your immune system and protect you from infections.
#2 It fights seasonal viruses
Honey has anti-inflammatory qualities that can help soothe a sore throat or other inflammatory conditions. When combined with warm water, it can relieve discomfort related to inflammation.
#3 It relieves muscle pain
The natural sugars in honey can provide a quick boost of energy, which can help reduce muscle soreness after exercise. It may also have a minor analgesic effect on muscle pain.
#4 It has an appetite suppressant effect
A teaspoon of honey mixed with warm water can promote a feeling of fullness. By reducing cravings for sugary or high-calorie snacks, it can improve portion control and reduce overall calorie intake.
#5 It improves digestion
Honey can soothe the digestive tract and reduce irritation. With warm water, it can help relieve indigestion and bloating. Additionally, honey contains prebiotic properties that can stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut.
>> The only contraindication for this daily glass of water with honey concerns diabetics: due to its high glucose level, honey has a strong hyperglycemic power.
Which honey to choose?
Beware of honey from China or other Asian countries in which abnormal traces of antibiotics and pesticide residues have been found! Honeys made in France fall within current regulations, where any addition of additives, sugars and in particular industrial syrups, is prohibited. Choose a pot showing the producer’s contact details, the ideal being to use it from a local beekeeper.
Label Rouge honeys are of good quality with rigorous specifications regarding storage and potting. As for certified organic honey, its very controlled method of preparation excludes heating to extract it from the hive frames. But be aware that bees don’t just collect organic flowers!
- Fir honey. Rare, precious, dark in color, its aroma is pronounced and a bit balsamic. Antiseptic and anti-anemic.
- Heather honey. Often harvested at altitude, it crystallizes slowly. Delicately scented, it has a pretty amber color. Recommended for kidney problems.
- Honey from the maquis. Rich on the palate, it is characterized by a range of flavors, from the sweetest (lavender) to the strongest (heather).
