The Healthy Power of a Glass of Hot Water and Honey in the Morning

The habit of starting the day with a glass of warm water and honey in the morning has become a common practice for many, similar to the custom of drinking water and turmeric, extra virgin olive oil or water and lemon. But what is behind this practice? Is it really as beneficial as people say? Let’s talk about it together, exploring the opinions of experts and scientific evidence.

The Benefits of Honey: A Nutritional Treasure

Honey is much more than just a sweetener. It is a concentrate of beneficial properties that make it a precious food for health. This natural product is rich in essential nutrients, including simple sugars such as glucose and fructose, vitamins, mineral salts and polyphenols, as well as containing only 20% water.

Concetta Montagnesenutritional biologist and researcher at the CNR Institute of Food Sciences, underlines that honey has been shown to possess several healthy properties:

Antioxidant: The polyphenols present in honey fight oxidative stress and free radicals, helping to prevent numerous chronic diseases, from obesity to cardiovascular diseases and tumors.
Anti-inflammatory: Honey can reduce inflammation in the body, a key factor in many conditions.
Beneficial for the intestine: Nourishes beneficial bacteria in the gut, promoting gastrointestinal health.
Protective against cancer: Some in vitro studies suggest that honey may reduce the proliferation of tumor cells and promote programmed cell death.
Antibacterial: Fights harmful bacteria such as Helicobacter pylori, protecting the gastric mucosa.

Moderation is the Key

Despite its many benefits, it is important to consume honey in moderation. Given its predominantly carbohydrate composition, excessive consumption can lead to an increase in calories and sugars in the diet. WHO guidelines recommend limiting free sugars to 5% of daily calories, which equates to approximately 3-4 teaspoons of honey per day for an 1800 calorie diet.

The Importance of Hydration

In addition to the benefits of honey, we cannot overlook the crucial role of hydration in our daily health. We often don’t drink enough, and a glass of water and honey in the morning can be a delicious way to hydrate. Additionally, drinking warm water with honey can enhance its benefits.

Glass of Hot Water and Honey in the Morning: Conclusion

In summary, while there is no direct scientific evidence to confirm a glass of hot water and honey as a health elixir, it is undoubtedly a healthy choice that can bring several benefits to overall well-being, provided it is consumed in moderation. Let us always remember to balance our diet and maintain an active lifestyle to fully enjoy the benefits that nature offers us.