What is the glycemic index of raw honey?
According to the January app, the glycemic index of raw honey is 58. This is considered Medium. By looking up raw 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 raw honey, your blood sugar levels will rise slowly. This is because of the medium glycemic index of raw 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 raw honey?
People with diabetes should consult their healthcare provider before incorporating raw honey into their diet. While raw honey has a medium glycemic index, it still impacts blood sugar levels, and individual responses can vary. It’s important to monitor blood sugar levels and ensure that any dietary choices align with personal health conditions and treatment plans. This is not medical advice, and you should always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
What are the health benefits of raw honey?
Raw honey is packed with antioxidants, such as phenolic compounds, which can help protect your body from cell damage due to free radicals. It also possesses antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can support wound healing and improve digestive health. Moreover, raw honey can act as a natural cough suppressant and provide a quick energy boost due to its natural sugars.
Nutritional Information
Here is the nutritional information for raw honey:
- Calories: 64 per tablespoon
- Protein: 0.1g
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 0.04g
- Calcium: 1mg
- Potassium: 11mg
- Sodium: 0.9mg
- Vitamin C: 0.1mg
What are some healthy alternatives to raw honey?
Some healthy alternatives to raw honey include maple syrup, which has a lower glycemic index, or agave nectar, which also boasts a lower glycemic index. Stevia and monk fruit are other options that do not impact blood sugar levels as they are calorie-free natural sweeteners. Dates and date syrup are also nutritious alternatives, providing fiber and various minerals along with natural sweetness.
Conclusion
Raw honey with its moderate glycemic index can be a valuable addition to your diet when used in moderation. It offers various health benefits, including its antioxidant and antibacterial properties. However, monitoring your intake is essential, especially if you are diabetic or managing your blood sugar levels. The January app can be an excellent tool for tracking and understanding the impact of raw honey and other foods on your health.
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 Raw Honey
Does the glycemic index of raw honey change with storage time?
Yes, the glycemic index of raw honey can change over time. As raw honey ages, some of its sugars may crystallize, potentially altering the rate at which it is absorbed into the bloodstream. This crystallization process can slightly affect the glycemic index, although raw honey generally maintains a medium impact on blood sugar levels.
Is there a difference in glycemic index between raw honey harvested in different regions?
Absolutely. The glycemic index of raw honey can vary depending on the floral source and geographical region. For example, raw honey harvested from wildflowers might have a different glycemic index compared to honey made from clover, as the types of sugars present and their concentrations can change based on the nectar sources available to the bees.
How does the glycemic index of raw honey compare when consumed in its natural state versus in a warm beverage?
The glycemic index of raw honey can be slightly higher when dissolved in a warm beverage compared to consuming it in its natural state. Heat can break down some of the complex sugars into simpler sugars, which the body absorbs more quickly, thereby increasing the glycemic index. However, this change is typically minimal and raw honey still retains its medium blood sugar impact.
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