Honey Vs Sugar: What's the Difference?

Sugar (composed of 99% sucrose) is a result of a combination between the glucose and fructose molecules that are normally extracted from sugar cane. The making of sugar involves processes such as concentration and denaturalization. These heating processes will destroy valuable nutrients such as protein, organic acid and other enzymes.

Honey, on the other hand, is a natural sweetener composed of 86% glucose-fructose combination, and not a single human touch interfered in the process of making honey. In other words, the making of honey is purely undoctored.

Click here to find out more details about the components of honey.

Another advantage of honey as a sugar substitute is that honey does not contain any harmful chemicals. Almost all nutrients in honey can be absorbed by the body, except for a very small portion that will be discharged.

This also makes honey much better than other artificial sweeteners which are non-nutritive and yield no energy.

As for sugar, since it is produced as a result of various processes, not only will the nutrients be lost along the way, but throughout these processes, harmful elements such as hydrochloric, phosphoric and sulphuric acids will make their way in.

Another important honey vs sugar comparison is probably in terms of their calorie contents. One tablespoon of honey contains approximately 30% more calories compared to the same amount of sugar. However, since honey is sweeter, you won't feel like eating it too much. That's why it is considered a good sugar substitute.

So how exactly does sugar affect your health?

1) Sugar actually depresses your immune system by reducing the amount of white blood cells in the body. The exposure of white blood cells to high levels of sugar in the bloodstream decreases its ability to prevent bacteria and other kinds of infections. In addition, sugar makes the body acidic, which makes it more vulnerable to bacterial and viral infection.

2) Sugar is categorized as high-glycemic food. This means that it causes the blood sugar level to increase and this in turn disturbs the insulin level. The issue of honey vs sugar is especially significant for diabetics.

You can keep track of your blood sugar level using a blood sugar level chart. Download a free blood sugar level chart here.

3) Sweetened food and beverages that contain a high amount of sugar can also cause one to gain weight since it contain large amounts of sugar that can be easily absorbed by the body. As for honey, even though it is assimilated into the bloodstream very quickly, it contains minerals and enzymes and therefore does not disturb the body's mineral balance as sugar does.

So as you can see, the comparisons of honey vs sugar is more than just their distinct tastes.

Honey is prized for its great healing quality and properties.

Yes, it does take a little bit of getting used to in making honey a sugar substitute in your diet, especially if you've been so accustomed to sugar as a food sweetener. Don't be too overwhelmed (although I completely understand why you are!).

Remember, the secret to achieving a healthier lifestyle is by making small changes everyday.

Return from Honey Vs Sugar to Honey For Health

Share your experience or concerns regarding honey vs sugar "battle".

Honey and sugar are both sweet. However, honey is considered much more healthier and many times overcoming sugar. If you have any concern or experience, we are honored to be enlighten.

What Other Visitors Have Said

Click below to see contributions from other visitors to this page...