Sugar is one of the things that people with diabetes are asked not to take. As a result, there is a myth that honey is also sugar and it is not good for diabetics. Really, is honey good for diabetics?
Honey contains more than 200 components, with fructose, glucose, and water as main substances (1).
According to studies, the fructose content of honey varies from 21 to 43% and the fructose/glucose ratio from 0.4 to 1.6 or even higher (2) (3).
Indeed, fructose is the sweetest naturally occurring sweetener in honey and it has a glycemic index of 19.
This is less than glucose which has 100 or sucrose (refined sugar) with 60 glycemic index.
Power Of Honey To Lower Blood Sugar Level
Different studies reveal the ability of honey to lower blood sugar level. However, the mechanism of this effect is still unclear.
According to the studies, fructose, selective mineral ions (selenium, zinc, copper, and vanadium), phenolic acids, and flavonoids might play a role in its power to lower blood sugar level (4).
Furthermore, we will highlight different animal studies with evidence that fructose tends to lower blood glucose.
When a diabetic takes honey, it could reduce the rate of intestinal absorption, prolong gastric emptying time and reduce food intake.
Also, fructose stimulates glucokinase in hepatocytes, which plays an important role in the uptake and storage of glucose as glycogen by the liver.
Interestingly, the two substances (fructose and glucose) work hand in hand.
For instance, glucose in honey enhances the absorption of fructose. Also, it promotes its hepatic actions through its enhanced delivery to the liver.
In different animal studies the effect of honey on diabetes have been documented.
A study of six weeks on healthy nondiabetic rats fed with a honey-containing diet exhibits good results.
According to the study, the weight of the rats was reduced statistically. However, no significant decreasing for glycosylated hemoglobin or food intake was observed (5).
Also, long-term honey feeding in Sprague-Dawley rats (52 weeks) produced a significant decrease of blood sugar levels but increased HDL (good) cholesterol.
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In another study, researchers fed healthy rats with 65 g/100 g combined fructose and glucose or a honey-based diet for two weeks.
The study says the level of blood fructose, serum vitamin E, and serum vitamin E/triglycerides increased, while glucose content remaind unchanged and triglyceride content decreased.
Furthermore, other studies showed impressive results and highlights the fact that longer period of feeding with honey is necessary to give significant results.
Bottom Line
Honey is a natural sweetener that is healthier than refined sugar. This is because it offers amazing nutritional benefits.
However, there is need for caution when you want to feed diabetics honey.
All you need is to make sure that the amount of honey you add to the meal of diabetics is low.
Always remember that people with diabetes need to carefully manage their blood sugar level. This will help avoid complications.
Consuming too much honey can lead to a rapid increase in blood sugar levels.
Sadly, this could cause spikes that can be problematic for individuals with diabetes.
Also, you can add honey to the diet of a diabetic in very small amount.
Furthermore, it is necessary to consider, instead, foods that offer a large amount of the antioxidants and other compounds in honey.
It is important to note that honey alone cannot offer full blood sugar lowering results. Also, diabetics should not take honey as a replacement for diabetes medication.
There are other lifestyle adjustment that would add to the mix and give amazing result. One of them is exercising.
While small amounts of honey may be part of a balanced diet for individuals with diabetes, it is crucial to monitor blood sugar levels and consume it in moderation.
It is always best to consult with a healthcare professional. The individual will provide personalised advice based on your specific health needs.
SEE HOW NATURAL OUR HONEY IS