What is the glycemic index of Honey?
According to the January app, the glycemic index of honey is 58. This is considered Medium. By looking up honey in the January app, you can quickly see the glycemic index of that food as well as the glycemic load. This information can help guide your dietary choices.
What impact will this have on my blood sugar levels?
When you eat honey, your blood sugar levels will rise slowly. This is because of the medium glycemic index of honey. Foods with a high glycemic index can cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels, while foods with a low glycemic index will cause a more gradual increase.
When using the January app, we can see the calories, macros, and glycemic index (GI) / glycemic load (GL) of that food item. But here's the best part: We can also see our predicted blood sugar response, without requiring you to wear a sensor.
Can people with diabetes eat honey?
People with diabetes should be cautious when consuming honey due to its natural sugar content and medium glycemic index. Moderation is key, and it is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider to understand how honey fits into your individual eating plan.
What are the health benefits of honey?
Honey has various health benefits, including its antioxidant properties, which help fight free radicals in the body. It can also provide a quick source of energy due to its natural sugar content. Additionally, honey has been used as a traditional remedy for sore throats and coughs, and it may help with wound healing when applied topically.
Food Nutritional Information
Here is the nutritional information for honey:
- Calories: 64 per tablespoon
- Protein: 0.1g per tablespoon
- Fat: 0g per tablespoon
- Carbohydrates: 17.3g per tablespoon
- Fiber: 0g per tablespoon
- Calcium: 1mg per tablespoon
- Potassium: 11mg per tablespoon
- Sodium: 1mg per tablespoon
- Vitamin C: 0.1mg per tablespoon
What are some healthy alternatives to honey?
If you are looking for alternatives to honey, consider using maple syrup, agave nectar, or even stevia. These alternatives vary in glycemic index and nutritional content, so it's essential to choose one that aligns with your dietary preferences and health goals.
Conclusion
Honey is a natural sweetener with a medium glycemic index, which means it impacts blood sugar levels moderately. It offers several health benefits, including antioxidant properties and potential soothing effects for sore throats. However, people with diabetes should consume it cautiously and consult their healthcare provider. By using tools like the January app, you can make informed decisions about including honey and other foods in your diet, considering both their nutritional information and predicted blood sugar response.
Use January to see your predicted blood sugar before you eat
To check the glycemic index of over 32M foods, as well as see your predicted blood sugar response before you eat them, use the January app. It’s completely free to download and use and it provides you with a treasure trove of nutritional and glucose insights to help you achieve your health goals.
FAQs about Honey
Does the glycemic index of honey vary depending on the type of flowers bees collect nectar from?
Yes, the glycemic index of honey can vary depending on the flora source. For example, honey derived from acacia flowers typically has a lower glycemic index compared to honey from clover or wildflowers. This variation occurs because different flowers produce nectar with different sugar compositions, affecting how quickly it is absorbed into the bloodstream.
Is there a difference in the glycemic index of honey consumed in its raw form versus processed honey?
Absolutely. Raw honey tends to have a lower glycemic index compared to processed honey. This is because raw honey contains more complex sugars and micronutrients which slow down its absorption, whereas processed honey often undergoes heating and filtering that can break down these complex sugars, making it higher in simple sugars and potentially increasing its glycemic index.
Does the time of day affect how honey impacts blood sugar levels?
Yes, consuming honey at different times of the day can impact blood sugar levels differently. In the morning, your metabolism is typically higher, and your body's insulin sensitivity is better, meaning honey's impact on blood sugar may be less pronounced compared to consuming it late at night when metabolism slows down. Therefore, honey might cause a more significant blood sugar spike before bedtime compared to breakfast.
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