With increasing concerns about the harmful effects of sophisticated sugar, many people are looking for natural options that provide both sweetness and health benefits. The most popular options are the date and honey – both are used for their nutrition and medicinal properties in various cultures for centuries. While dates are usually found in the Middle Eastern and South Asian diets, honey has been a predominant in various traditional medicines, including Ayurveda and Chinese therapy.

But when it comes to health-conscious decisions, which is a better option? Should you reach a handful of dates or drip some honey in your tea? check for!

Which is more nutritious?

When it comes to nutrition, dates and honey provide different benefits.

The date, often referred to as a candy of nature, is packed with fiber, vitamins and minerals. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), 100 grams dates contain 277 calories, 75 grams of carbohydrates, 7 grams of fiber and 2G protein. They are also a rich source of potassium, magnesium, vitamin B6 and iron.

On the other hand, honey offers 304 calories and 82 grams of carbohydrates per 100 grams. While it contains small amounts of potassium and B vitamins, it lacks fiber. However, honey has unique antibacterial and anti -inflammatory properties that make it out.

A nutritionist and assistant professor at New York University, Dr. “Dates are nutrient-dense, offer fiber and minerals, while honey offers antioxidants and antibacterial benefits,” says Lisa Young.

Effect on blood sugar levels

One of the greatest concerns when choosing sweetener is its effect on blood sugar levels.

Their fiber content causes a dated medium glycemic index (GI), which slows down sugar absorption. A 2011 study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that there was no significant blood sugar spike in the dates of consumption when eaten in moderation.

Honey, however, is a high GI and may cause rapid blood sugar spikes. A 2015 study published in the Journal of Nutrition states that Honey has some health benefits, yet it can greatly affect blood sugar levels.

Dr. Frank Hu, a professor of nutrition at Harvard V Chan School of Public Health, warn, “Although honey has antioxidants, it is still sugar. If you have diabetes or looking at your blood sugar, dates may be safe options.”

Antioxidant and anti -inflammatory benefits

Both dates and honey are rich in antioxidants, which help protect the body from inflammation and oxidative stress.

The 2019 reviews in important reviews in food science and nutrition highlighted high content of flavonoids, carotenoids, and phenolic acid, which is associated with reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and Alzheimer’s.

Honey is also a powerful antioxidant. A 2017 study in oxidative therapy and cellular longevity found that Honey’s phenolic compounds contribute to its anti -inflammatory properties and support heart health.

Digestive Health: Which is better?

For the health of the intestine, the dates are up to the upper hand.

Dates are rich in dietary fiber, which promotes digestion and helps prevent constipation. A 2015 study at the British Journal of Nutrition found that the participants consumed daily experienced bowel movements and intestine health.

Honey, while fiber deficiency, has prebiotic properties, which means that it feeds good intestine bacteria. However, its effect is not as important as fiber -rich foods.

Professor of Genetic epidemiology at King’s College London. “If digestive health is your priority, dates are clear winners due to their high fiber content,” says Tim Spector.

Other health benefits

Beyond nutrition and digestion, both sweetness provide unique health benefits.

• Dates have been linked to improving brain health due to their anti -inflammatory properties. A 2020 study published in frontiers in neurosciences suggested that regular date consumption can help reduce the risk of neurodogenative diseases.
• Honey has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to heal wounds and cough. The 2018 review of systematic reviews found that honey was more effective than some over-the-counter cuff drugs in treating upper respiratory infections.

Which one should you choose?

While both dates and honey are healthy options for sophisticated sugar, the better option depends on individual needs:

– Fiber and intestine for health: dates are better options.

– For a liquid sweetener with medicinal benefits: Honey is a great option.

– For blood sugar control: Date has low glycemic effects.

– For stability: Dates win again.

Finally, both can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation.

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