Understanding Honey's Impact on Blood Sugar Levels

When it comes to natural sweeteners, honey is often considered a healthier alternative to refined sugars. However, its impact on blood sugar levels has been debated among health experts. To understand how honey affects blood sugar levels, let's explore the science behind it.

The Glycemic Index of Honey: A Key Factor

Honey can vary in terms of its glycemic index (GI), which measures a food's ability to raise blood low blood sugar liver glucose levels after consumption. The GI scale ranges from 0 to 100, with higher values indicating a more significant increase in blood sugar. White honey and manuka honey tend to have lower GIs compared to other types of honey.

The Role of Fructose in Honey

Honey contains fructose, which is rapidly absorbed by the body and can cause an insulin response. However, some studies suggest that low blood sugar and fast heart rate the fructose content in honey may not be as high as previously thought. According to research published in the Journal of Food Science, honey has a lower total sugar concentration compared to other sweeteners.

Stabilizing Blood Sugar with Honey's Antioxidants

Honey is rich in antioxidants like flavonoids and phenolic acids, which can help stabilize blood sugar levels by reducing inflammation and improving insulin sensitivity. A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that consuming honey before a meal reduced blood glucose spikes in people with type 2 diabetes.

The Impact of Honey on Insulin Resistance

Insulin resistance is a precursor to type 2 diabetes, where cells become less responsive to insulin's signals. Some studies suggest that regular consumption of small acceptable blood sugar range for diabetics amounts of honey may help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of developing insulin resistance.

Using Honey in Moderation for Blood Sugar Management

While honey has potential benefits for blood sugar management, it is essential to consume it in moderation due to its high calorie content. A general guideline is to limit daily intake to 1-2 teaspoons (5-10 getting blood sugar levels down grams) per serving.

The Antioxidant Properties of Honey and Their Impact on Blood Sugar Levels

Honey's antioxidant properties have been found to help regulate blood sugar levels by reducing oxidative stress, which can lead to insulin resistance. The polyphenols present in honey may also contribute to its beneficial effects on blood glucose control.

Thanks to Levels for sponsoring this video. To get started, go to and get 2 additional months free on the annual Levels membership. Using a continuous glucose monitor from Levels, I tested my blood sugar after eating five popular fruits: a banana, strawberries, grapes, an apple, and an orange. How do you think they will match up? I share my results in the video. Food Order Video: **************** Get Dr. Becky's books on Amazon or your favorite retailer: Zero Sugar / One Month: Intermittent Fasting Diet Guide and Cookbook: Get started with Dr. Becky for free: Learn her 0,1,2,3 Strategy (a.k.a. 4 Daily Habits for Weight Loss): Are you up for the challenge? Take our 21-Day LOW-CARB or KETO Challenge: Reach your goal by joining Dr. Becky's Freedom 40-Day Diet Reset: Get Dr. Becky's Cookbooks: Facebook: @drbeckyfitness Instagram: @drbeckyfitness Twitter: @drbeckyfitness Pinterest: @drbeckyfitness Dr. Becky's 2nd YouTube Channel: 2 Fit Docs Links to the studies mentioned in my videos can be found on my blog by typing the video name into the search: ************ Disclaimer: Dr. Becky Gillaspy, DC received her Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Palmer College of Chiropractic in 1991. Her use of “doctor” or “Dr.” in relation to herself solely refers to that degree. Dr. Gillaspy was a licensed chiropractor in Pennsylvania, but she no longer practices chiropractic in any state and does not see patients. This video is for general informational purposes only. It should not be used to self-diagnose and it is not a substitute for a medical exam, cure, treatment, diagnosis, and prescription or recommendation. It does not create a doctor-patient relationship between Dr. Gillaspy and you. You should not make any change in your health regimen or diet before first consulting a physician and obtaining a medical exam, diagnosis, and recommendation. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Dr Becky Fitness LLC and Dr. Rebecca Gillaspy, D.C. are not liable or responsible for any advice, course of treatment, diagnosis or any conclusions drawn, services or product you obtain through this video or site.