What is Raw Honey?
Raw honey is honey that has not been heated, pasteurized, or processed in any way. It is obtained directly from the honeycomb and typically contains all the natural enzymes, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that are present in honey. Raw honey is also often unfiltered, so it may contain small particles of beeswax, pollen, or other materials that are naturally found in honey.
Raw honey is considered to be more nutritious than processed honey because it has not been subjected to high temperatures or other forms of processing that can destroy or remove some of its beneficial compounds. It is also less likely to contain added sugars, artificial sweeteners, or other additives that can be harmful to health.
To get the most health benefits from raw honey, it’s important to look for honey that is minimally processed and has not been heated at high temperatures.
Why is Raw Honey healthier than Processed Honey?
Raw honey is considered to be healthier than processed honey for several reasons:
- Nutritional Value: Raw honey contains a variety of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and enzymes that can be beneficial for overall health. During the processing of honey, many of these nutrients can be lost, making the final product less nutritious.
- Enzyme Content: Raw honey contains enzymes such as diastase, which can aid in digestion and provide other health benefits. Processing can destroy these enzymes, reducing the nutritional value of the honey.
- Antioxidant Properties: Raw honey is a rich source of antioxidants that can help protect the body against oxidative stress and free radical damage. Processing can reduce the antioxidant content of honey, reducing its health benefits.
- Unprocessed Honey is less likely to contain additives or artificial sweeteners: Raw honey is less likely to contain added sugars, artificial sweeteners, or other additives that can have negative effects on health.
Honey contains the enzyme Diastase. What are the benefits of Diastase?
Diastase is an enzyme found in honey that can break down starch into glucose and maltose, two types of simple sugars. Some of the benefits of diastase in honey include:
- Digestion: Diastase can aid in the digestion of carbohydrates and help in the breakdown of starch in the human body. This can help in preventing digestive problems and make it easier for the body to absorb nutrients.
- Antioxidant Properties: Diastase has been shown to have antioxidant properties that can help protect the body from oxidative stress and free radical damage.
- Anti-inflammatory Properties: Some studies have shown that diastase has anti-inflammatory properties that may help in reducing inflammation in the body.
- Immune System Support: Honey with high levels of diastase can help support the immune system and protect the body against bacterial and viral infections.
It is important to note that the levels of diastase in honey can vary greatly, depending on the type of honey and how it is processed. Some varieties of honey may contain very little diastase, while others may contain much higher levels.
What does high temperature do to honey?
Honey is often pasteurized by heating it to around 63°C ( 145°F) for 30 minutes or 71°C (160°F) for a shorter duration. This process is designed to destroy yeast cells, extend shelf life, and reduce crystallization. However, pasteurization also reduces the nutritional and health benefits of honey.
Raw honey, in contrast, is unpasteurized and minimally processed, retaining more vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and antioxidants. These elements boost the immune system, provide anti-inflammatory effects, and support overall health. Raw honey also maintains its natural enzymes, which aid in digestion and enhance its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, making it effective for wound healing and sore throats.
Additionally, raw honey may contain beneficial probiotics that support gut health, which are destroyed during pasteurization. Many people prefer raw honey for its superior taste and aroma, as the heating process can alter the flavor profile of honey. Overall, raw honey offers a richer source of nutrients and a more authentic taste, making it a preferred choice for those seeking maximum health benefits.