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Honey, nature's original sweetener, is being rediscovered as a natural source of energy that also offers a unique combination of nutritional benefits.
Sugars are the fundamental unit of energy for our bodies. All carbohydrates, whether simple sugars or complex carbohydrates, must be broken down to glucose, or blood sugar, before our bodies can use them as energy. The sugars in honey are primarily glucose and fructose and although the body absorbs them in different manners, both provide the body with quick energy. Recent studies suggest that this unique mixture of sugars which occurs naturally in honey, works best in preventing fatigue and enhancing athletic performance.
In addition to being a concentrated energy source, honey contains a wide array of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and amino acids. In a recent review of related literature, Dr. Susan Percival of the University of Florida's Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition found honey contains vitamins, such as vitamin B6, thiamin, riboflavin and pantothenic acid. Essential minerals, such as calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, sodium and zinc are also found in honey.
In addition, several different amino acids, the building blocks of protein, have been identified in honey." says Dr. Percival. "Honey also contains several compounds that function as antioxidants, one of which is unique to honey called pinocembrin." Although these substances appear in trace amounts and vary depending on the honey's floral source, they contribute to your overall nutrition intake.
For a quick source of energy and to reap the benefits of honey's healthful properties, make honey part of your daily diet along with plenty of fruits and vegetables. Use honey to sweeten your oatmeal or drizzle it over a grapefruit half. Add honey and fresh fruit to low-fat yogurt for an energy-sustaining snack or stir a spoonful of honey into a glass of water before your daily workout.
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