Sweetness in the Heart: How Does Honey Heal the Body?

For several days before and after Rosh Hashanah, we are accustomed to wishing one another that the coming year will be a good and sweet year. What represents the sweetness of the upcoming year for us? Honey, of course. Since childhood, we are reminded that honey is healthy—but is it really?

A closer examination of honey’s ingredients raises some questions. If we compare honey to fruits, we find the following: fruits contain proteins, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. In addition, fruits contain plenty of fluids and dietary fiber that help moderate the rise in blood sugar levels, as well as many antioxidants. In contrast, honey contains almost no vitamins, minerals, protein, or fats. It is essentially 100% carbohydrates, primarily sugars. So where, then, lies its advantage?

Plants contain substances called phytochemicals—plant compounds known as phenolic acids, flavonoids, terpenoids, saponins, and tannins. In the plant world, these substances serve as protective agents against diseases, pests, and weather damage. In the human body, they strengthen the immune system and help protect against various diseases. Accordingly, the bee, which gathers pollen and nectar from flowers, also collects these phytochemicals—sometimes from thousands of flowers containing hundreds of thousands, and even millions, of different phytochemicals. This makes honey a unique reservoir of diverse plant compounds. This is what gives honey its uniqueness and contributes to its reputation as a healing food.

However, it should be noted that fruits also contain high levels of phytochemicals—no less than honey. So what still differentiates honey? In terms of health-promoting components, it is not preferable to fruits, but it does have certain distinct properties:
A. Due to its high sugar content, it can be used as a laxative and may help with mild constipation.
B. As a sweetener, its value and taste are far superior to sugar.
C. Honey is available in a wide range of flavors depending on its source, making it a unique and richly flavored food.

Nevertheless, it is important to remember that honey has a high glycemic index, which means that people with diabetes or those sensitive to sugar should consume it with caution.

Eliahu Shachter is an iridologist and natural therapist.