KOMPAS.com – Honey is often considered a healthier alternative to granulated sugar.
However, what is the impact on people with type 2 diabetes? This article will discuss the benefits and risks of honey for diabetes sufferers based on the latest research.
What is honey?
Honey is a natural sweet liquid produced by bees from flower nectar. Natural processes in the beehive convert nectar into honey which contains simple sugars, such as glucose and fructose.
Also read: A Healthier Substitute for Sugar, There is Honey
Apart from that, honey also contains vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, which differentiates it from granulated sugar which only contains empty calories.
There are two types of honey:
- Raw honey: Unprocessed and retains nutritional content and health benefits.
- Processed honey: Heated and filtered, which can reduce nutritional value and health benefits.
The relationship between honey and diabetes
In diabetes sufferers, the body cannot use insulin effectively or does not produce enough insulin to keep blood sugar levels stable. Some studies show that honey may affect blood sugar and insulin levels:
Effects on blood sugar
Honey can increase insulin levels and reduce blood sugar levels in some cases.
However, consuming honey can also cause a spike in blood sugar, especially if it is used as an addition, not a substitute for other sugars (still consuming sugar).
Latest research
Impact of lowering blood sugar
A 2022 systematic review concluded that certain types of honey, such as clover honey and Robinia, may slightly lower fasting blood sugar. However, this effect was only observed in small, short-term studies.
Also read: How to Make Honey Tea, a Warm Drink for Rainy Days
Hemoglobin A1C
Clinical research in 2019 in Iran showed that consuming 50 grams of honey every day for 8 weeks increased hemoglobin A1C levels.
This indicates poor diabetes control. Therefore, honey should be consumed with great care by diabetics.
Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory benefits
Honey has antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties that may be beneficial for wound healing in people with diabetes. However, these benefits require further research to confirm.
Risks of honey for diabetes sufferers
Blood sugar spikes
Consuming large amounts of honey can cause a spike in blood sugar which worsens diabetes.
Honey illustration.Impure honey products
Some honey on the market contains added sugar or syrup, which can be detrimental to diabetes sufferers.
Effects on babies
Raw honey should not be given to babies under 1 year of age due to the risk of botulism (a neurological disease caused by toxins produced by bacteria Clostridium botulinum).
Conclusion
Although honey has potential health benefits, including for people with diabetes, more research is needed to ensure its safety.
For people with type 2 diabetes, honey should be used as a substitute for sugar, not as an addition, and should still be consumed in limited quantities.
Also read: Benefits of boiled turmeric water mixed with honey for health
Before adding honey to your diet, it is important to consult a doctor to avoid complications.
If consuming honey causes a significant spike in blood sugar, stop using it immediately and consult a medical professional.
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