Honey is a healthy food suitable for all ages. Its nutrients can be quickly absorbed by the body and improve overall health. Drinking honey water has multiple benefits, including antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, promoting the regeneration of tissue cells, aiding digestion, improving sleep, and boosting immunity. However, there are also taboos associated with drinking honey water; improper consumption can lead to health issues. So, how can you drink honey water healthily? What are the taboos...
The time to drink honey
“Morning salt water, evening honey soup.” This saying means that it is better to drink honey at night. Of course, you can also drink it at noon, but many current viewpoints suggest not drinking honey in the morning.
Tip: If you want to drink honey water during the day, it is more appropriate to drink it 1.5 hours before a meal or 2 hours after a meal.
The water temperature for making honey water matters
To preserve the nutritional value of honey water, you should not use freshly boiled water to dissolve it. Instead, it should be diluted with warm water at a temperature not exceeding 40°C. In the summer, using cool water for dilution provides a better taste.
Tip: For the best absorption of honey's nutrients, it is recommended to consume it directly by holding it in the mouth without diluting it with water, so that the nutrients are not destroyed.
Drink honey in moderation
Although drinking honey can be nourishing, because honey is rich in sugar, more is not always better. The daily intake of honey should be limited. Typically, adults should not consume more than 50 grams (about 3 tablespoons) per day, while for minors, the amount should be halved.
Tip: It is not recommended for infants under one year old to consume honey.
Differentiate between honey varieties
There are many types of honey, categorized by the flowers the bees collect nectar from, such as linden honey, acacia honey, and wildflower honey. Generally, acacia honey and jujube honey are suitable for the elderly; linden honey and longan honey are suitable for women, while wildflower honey is suitable for everyone.
Taboos on incompatible foods with honey
Honey should not be consumed with tofu or chives. Honey itself has a laxative effect. Tofu is rich in plant protein and organic acids, while chives are rich in plant fiber. Therefore, consuming honey with either tofu or chives can cause diarrhea.
Honey Throat-Soothing Tea
Take 10 grams of green tea and 2 tablespoons of honey. First, brew the green tea with boiling water. When the tea water temperature drops below 40°C, add the honey and stir well. Drink to soothe the throat and relieve sore throat pain.
Honey Skin-Softening Water
Take one tablespoon each of honey and vinegar from a household spoon. Dilute with warm water below 40°C, stir well, and drink 2-3 times a day. This can make rough, aged skin become delicate and moisturized.
Honey Lung-Moistening Water
Take 30 grams of honey (about 2 tablespoons) and 1 snow pear. Peel the pear, remove the top, and core it. Pour the honey into the hollowed-out pear, put the top back on, and steam it in a pot for 5-10 minutes. Then, drink the juice and honey soup. This can clear the lungs and relieve coughing.