For thousands of years, from ancient Egyptians, to Romans, and ancient Indians, it has been revered as a sacred medicine, a golden liquid worthy of gods. This sweet treat is a potent natural remedy known to mankind for thousands of years. It is honey. Honey can be consumed in many forms; honey with warm water is considered the best way to drink it.
Benefits of drinking honey with warm water:
Weight loss, Improves Digestion, and Prebiotic Effects
Drinking one glass of warm water with two tablespoons of honey mixed in it can boost metabolism. A simple boost in metabolism allows the body to burn fat. It can aid in a diet. It provides energy as well. And if you add lime or apple cider vinegar to that water, it becomes a potent cocktail for weight loss that keeps you hydrated.
Honey has a prebiotic effect on our gut. It facilitates the growth of gut-friendly bacteria and inhibits pathogenic bacteria. Improving the digestion, reducing the bloating, and improving the assimilation of nutrients.
Raw honey is best for weight loss
Soothes upper respiratory infections and cough
Honey is a natural alternative for reducing coughing, especially in children. Honey with warm water can soothe the sore throat and the lining inside the esophagus.
As per an independent study published in the BMJ Evidence-Based Medicine, honey is far superior to certain medicines in relieving severe cough symptoms. Honey can be used as an antibiotic.
The benefits of honey in the upper respiratory tract give it an advantage over the non-traditional method of cough relief. And the reduced risk of side effects makes it an ideal medicine.
Cardiovascular health
The cardiovascular health benefits of honey are underrated. It has a direct effect on the cardiometabolic state of our body. A comprehensive meta-analysis shows that regular intake of honey with warm water can reduce the bad LDL cholesterol while increasing the good cholesterol HDL.
The same study published in the Nutrition Reviews is one of the most comprehensive studies of honey on cardiovascular health. It proves the benefits of honey in maintaining a lower glucose level.
Anti-Inflammatory, Immunomodulatory, and strengthens immunity
As per the Honey Research Journal, honey has anti-inflammatory properties. So, how does honey reduce inflammation? The bioactive compounds in honey, also known as flavonoids, can trigger cytokine production. It can regulate immune cell activity. Making it possible for honey to act as an anti-inflammatory agent.
The one thing that you have to keep in mind is that it is a slow-acting immunity agent. Regular consumption of raw honey with water can yield good results. It is not a quick action formula. So, take it on a regular basis to get good results.
Wound Healing, Relieves Muscle Soreness
Honey has a low pH and high sugar content. It creates a hyperosmotic environment that drains the water out of bacteria and kills them in the process. Medical Manuka honey is known to be effective against a wide range of bacteria. Some studies indicate that it is effective against the antibiotic-resistant MRSA strain.
It has a low dose of hydrogen peroxide enzyme that kills bacteria as well. Application of honey on wounds can seal them and prevent bacteria from infecting them.
A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Dermatology provides a detailed overview of the benefits of honey application in treating minor burns, surgical sites, and even chronic ulcers. When honey is consumed with warm water, it boosts the immune system.
Rich in antioxidants and reduces inflammation
Honey is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and micronutrients. It helps reduce oxidative stress. Whether you are consuming honey with water or applying it topically as a facemask, it helps our body fight against the free radicals.
Topical application can fight the signs of aging and can even reverse the minor signs of aging. It reduces the blemishes and can help maintain a smooth, supple skin; there are multiple health benefits of honey for our skin.
Helps with skincare and makes your skin glow
As mentioned above, along with its high antioxidant, honey is rich in anti-microbial properties. It has the right nutrients that may help with skin collagen production. It is known to create a barrier on the skin and reflect the UV rays’ damage. Thus, reducing the discoloration.
Along with drinking honey with warm water, you should apply the honey to your skin at least twice a week. It helps in brightening skin and may reduce acne.
Potential risk associated with the daily honey water routine
- Allergy: Raw honey contains pollens and other ingredients that trigger an allergic reaction. You can switch to commercial honey.
- High Sugar: Honey is a sugar alternative. It has a slightly lower glycemic index than sugar. The difference is insignificant. So, if you are diabetic, you should avoid honey or at least use it in moderation.
- Additives: Currently, almost all of the honey is adulterated; be careful about the source of honey to avoid buying the contaminated product.
Is honey better than sugar?
Yes, honey is better than sugar. Honey is rich in antioxidants, flavonoids, vitamins, and certain minerals. While sugar lacks all of them.
Bottom-Line
Overall, the benefits of drinking honey with warm water outweigh the minor risk associated with honey. Honey is part of traditional medicine with proven benefits backed by science.
Frequently asked questions
Which honey is better, raw or processed?
Raw honey is the best. It is pure and unaltered. However, if you have allergies, go for processed honey. Better, test the product before consuming.
Can I drink honey water every day?
Yes, you can drink honey with warm water every day. Add lemon to it, and you have one of the best weight loss cocktails.
How long can I store raw honey?
Pure honey will never go bad. It will crystallize over time, but it will never smell or taste bad.
My honey is crystallized. What should I do?
If you are worried about crystallization, just heat it over the warm water. Do not heat directly over the flame. It destroys many of the benefits of honey.
What are the health benefits of warm honey water?
Same as regular honey water.
Can I drink honey with warm water if I have diabetes?
We would not suggest drinking honey with warm water on a regular basis. If your diabetes is under control, you can try. We recommend consulting a healthcare professional.
