Honey is a "great tonic" but what foods should it not be combined with?

(Dan Tri) - Although honey is considered a wonderful gift from nature with many valuable nutrients, caution should be exercised when using it.

Many good nutritional ingredients

According to Dr. Ngo Thi Kim Oanh, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City - Branch 3, honey is a natural food containing many important nutrients.

The main ingredient of honey is sugar, mainly fructose and glucose, which account for about 80% of the composition. This food also provides some vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B, vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, potassium and iron.

In addition, honey also contains health-beneficial antioxidants such as flavonoids and phenolic acids.

Honey contains many vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that are beneficial to health (Photo: Unsplash).

Many studies have also shown that this food can also reduce inflammation, soothe coughs and aid digestion. The antioxidants in honey can also help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and cancer.

This food is also known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help improve the immune system and support the skin. Thanks to these properties, honey has become a popular ingredient in health and beauty products, from skin creams to natural face masks.

Who should not use a lot of honey?

Honey can be used in many different ways depending on each person's needs. However, Dr. Oanh noted that when using it, people should not boil honey for too long or at too high a temperature. This action can reduce or destroy the beneficial enzymes and nutrients in this food.

Although honey has many health benefits, not everyone can use honey comfortably. Doctor Oanh recommends that the following 3 groups should be careful when using honey.

- People with diabetes : Although it has a lower glycemic index than white sugar, honey can still increase blood sugar levels if used too much.

For people with diabetes, especially those who must strictly control their blood sugar levels, honey consumption needs to be strictly controlled.

Doctors often recommend that diabetic patients replace honey with sweeteners with a lower glycemic index or use honey in moderation.

- Children under 1 year old : Honey is not recommended for children under 1 year old because it may contain bacteria that cause botulinum poisoning, affecting the child's nervous system. Therefore, this group is advised not to use honey.

- Allergies : Although rare, some people may be allergic to honey, especially those with pollen allergies. Allergy symptoms may include rashes, itching, or even swelling and difficulty breathing.

If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction after using honey, you should stop using it immediately and consult your doctor.

Honey can have adverse health effects if consumed in excess by people with diabetes, children under 1 year old, and those with allergies (Photo: Unsplash)

Besides, Dr. Oanh also said that honey can interact with some foods and medicines.

- Pain relievers or antibiotics : Some studies show that honey can increase the effects of some pain relievers or antibiotics, helping to improve treatment effectiveness. However, using honey with medication requires a doctor's guidance, because honey can change the absorption of some medications.

- Kudzu powder : Honey contains a lot of fructose, a type of sugar that can cause indigestion in some people, especially those with digestive problems or conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome. When honey is combined with the starch in kudzu powder, digestion can be affected, leading to bloating and indigestion.

Although there is no specific research on the combination of honey and tapioca starch, these theories are based on general digestive mechanisms and recommendations from nutritionists.

If you experience symptoms such as bloating, indigestion, or any unusual reactions, you should stop combining these two ingredients and consult a doctor or nutritionist.

- Other sugary products : Honey is a source of natural sugar, so combining it with products that contain added sugar (like candy or pastries) can increase your body's sugar intake.

People with heart health problems, diabetes or being overweight should consider combining honey with other sugary foods.

Source: https://dantri.com.vn/suc-khoe/mat-ong-dai-bo-nhung-khong-nen-ket-hop-voi-thuc-pham-nao-20250629144145034.htm