Old age brings many issues, while a few of the ageing issues cannot be prevented or reversed, many of them are linked to the diet and way of life within our control. These issues can be prevented or delayed by following a healthy and principled life, including a healthy diet. Many people experience health conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, heart issues, bone issues, hearing issues and so on, as they age. Dementia is another serious issue that troubles the senior population.
These are apart from the common everyday issues of chewing, digestion, bowel movements, ulcers, inflammations, and joint pains, etc. When the season changes, issues with common cold, cough, and flu also emerge. HONEY has been found to have good therapeutic food values to counter many of these senior’s health issue, and even western world has now understood the value of honey.
But, for Indians, honey is a common food item found in most kitchens and part of many home remedies. While many of the medicinal properties of honey have been proved scientifically, a few of the uses that we Indians put it to are still under study. But, Ayurveda does use honey in many of its preparations. Moreover, honey is being touted as a healthy substitute for sugar by fitness experts and is vouched for, by weight-loss proponents. There is no doubt that sweet in any form, in excess is not good for the health. However, natural or raw honey has the health benefits that does make it better than sugar. Processed honey may not provide you with all the benefits that raw honey can. Honey is the only thing that does not spoil and has a lot to do with its composition.
High in antioxidants
It is antioxidants that help our body fight a lot of infections and diseases, including serious ones like cancer. This is why a healthy and balanced diet is one that includes food items that provide a lot of antioxidants. Honey happens to be one such food item which is high in antioxidants. These can help prevent heart attacks, certain cancers, strokes, etc. Honey contains flavonoids, phenolic acids, glucose oxidase, and amino acids, all of which are therapeutic in helping seniors fight many chronic conditions.
The beauty of using honey as sweetener instead of sugar is that you could use less of honey to get more sweetness, and in healthier way than using sugar. Sugar does not provide any health benefits as such, and would also give you health issues in the long run. This is why honey could work as substitute for sugar.
Stimulates memory
It has been proved scientifically that honey can stimulate memory and prevent cognitive decline in the ageing population. Since this is one of the main concerns for the seniors, consumption of honey can help counter this issue. Honey does this by reducing the oxidative stress because of the various components in it. The polyphenols in honey not just restore the cellular antioxidants, but also help improve memory deficits at the molecular level. Research has also established that consumption of honey helps reduce anxiety and this can, in turn, help with a lot of things. Anxiety is a major cause of many other issues that develop in old age.
Lowers blood pressure
Most heart issues that develop as we age are linked to blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Honey has been known to lower the blood pressure as well as improve the good cholesterol (HDL) levels in the body and also reduce the bad cholesterol levels. It improves the lipid metabolism on regular consumption so that overall the cardiovascular health stays good.
Digestion aid
Raw honey is a good digestion aid as it contains enzymes that help digest the food faster, especially the carbs and sugars. Honey has been traditionally used to treat gastrointestinal ulcers and stomach issues. A spoonful of honey in warm water is well-known home remedy used by many Indians. This is because honey has anti-bacterial properties and is also a rich source of probiotics that is good for gut health.
Immunity booster
In current times, we need natural immunity boosters that can protect us from diseases and avoid hospital visits. Honey is a wonderful food that can help us achieve this, as proved by studies. It is said a glass of worm water with lemon juice and honey is a good detoxification aid when taken first thing in the morning. Besides, honey also contains good amounts of iron, calcium, and magnesium, while raw honey is extremely good for health.
How to consume
Honey can be used to sweeten your beverages, or used in your breakfast cereals. You could simple take it with glass of warm water, as mentioned earlier. You may use it as sprinkler on top of salads and toasts if you like. If you have been asked to avoid sugars totally, then using honey also may not be good. But, if you feel tempted to use sugar, use honey in that place, and it will be healthier. And it is to be taken in moderation, one or two teaspoons daily should be all that is required to take in the goodness of the honey.
Waiting for your feedback on this blog.
Anil Malik
Mumbai, India
30th July 2024