is honey better than sugar - #22353
I am really confused about what to use in my tea these days. Lately, I’ve noticed that every time I add sugar, I feel kinda sluggish afterward, and my friend swears honey is waay better for energy levels. I mean, it's not like I'm trying to cut sugar completely, but with all the talk around "is honey better than sugar", I just don’t know what to think! I read somewhere that honey has some vitamins and minerals that sugar doesn't, but isn’t sugar just easier to get? Plus, my kid loves honey on toast, and I'm like, is that actually better for him? We’ve been trying to eat healthier since last month, but the sugar cravings still hit hard, ya know? I tried switching to honey a few times when baking, but it seems like such a hassle to measure. And then there's the whole idea that honey has a lower glycemic index, but is that really true? It’s like so much to consider and I keep wondering, "is honey better than sugar" for my family or is it just a health fad? I don’t want to end up replacing one bad habit with another without knowing, any thoughts?
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Doctors' responses
The question of whether honey is better than sugar really depends on what you’re looking for in your diet. Firstly, both honey and sugar are forms of sugar, so they will both contribute to your daily sugar intake. It’s true that honey contains trace amounts of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, calcium, and iron, whereas sugar provides none of these nutrients. However, the amounts in honey are quite minimal and may not be nutritionally significant if they are not consumed in substantial amounts. As for the glycemic index (GI), honey typically has a lower GI compared to regular sugar, which might mean a slightly less drastic rise in blood sugar levels, but the difference might not be that significant if you consume them in large quantities. Honey does contain enzymes and antioxidants, which theoretically could offer some additional health benefits, although it’s essential to note that these benefits can vary depending on the honey’s source and processing. When it comes to energy levels, some people do feel less of a “crash” after honey, but this can vary from person to person.
If you’re looking to manage sugar intake or have concerns like prediabetes or diabetes, more important than the choice between honey and sugar is the amount you consume overall. For healthier eating, it’s essential to use both sparingly. In terms of practical use, yes, honey can be more challenging to measure due to its viscosity and sweetness—so when using honey as a substitute in baking, you often need less honey than sugar. As for your child, while honey isn’t a health food per se, its antioxidant content could make it a slightly better choice if used in moderation, but always ensure honey is only given to children over one year old due to the risk of botulism in infants. Ultimately, both sugar and honey should be consumed mindfully and in moderation. The choice boils down to personal preference, taste, and how either fits into your nutritional goals; if you’re aiming for reducing sugar intake overall, focusing on reducing added sugars in general rather than just picking between these two (both have similar caloric content) would probably be the most impactful change.
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