Introduction

In the world we live in has a lot of truth and a lot of myth. The weight loss sector has many trends and fads. One of such information in the space today is superpower of honey water. It is shown as a supposed elixir for weight loss. We see people drinking honey water every day with the pretext of losing weight by it. Now that gets the question, It is really a magic potion for weight loss, or just another myth?

The Myth

Honey Water is a weight loss miracle. To break this myth lets us understand a few claims of this myth

  1. Honey Boosts Metabolism: This is a myth. The fact that honey does contain trace amounts of minerals and antioxidants, this small amount however is not enough to boost a person’s metabolism. On top of that, here is not any evidence to support the idea of metabolism improvement from honey. We also have to note that the consumption amount is usually a spoon or two
  2. Honey Burns Fat: This is a myth again. Honey is a source of sugar and calories. One tbsp of honey contains about 65- 70 K.Cal. I do agree that honey can be a healthier alternative to refined sugar. But the claim that consuming honey alone can burn fat is highly unbelievable. It has no physiological property to burn fat
  3. Honey Suppresses Appetite: This is not completely a myth. There are some studies which suggest that honey may have a mild satiating effect, but putting your hope solely on honey water for appetite control is not a sustainable weight loss strategy. Again I have to point out the fact that consumption of honey is in a very small quantity per day.

The Truth

Honey Water Can Help in Weight Loss but Is not the Sole Contributor

  1. Honey’s Nutritional Content: Although it cannot claim to be the best nutritious food, I would like to point out the fact that honey does offer small amounts of vitamins, minerals like potassium, iron and calcium. It is also a source of phenolic acid and flavonoids which are antioxidants. Honey any day can be a better alternative supplement for refined sugars. Do keep in mind to consume it in moderation due to its dense calorie and sugar content.
  2. Hydration and Weight Loss: Honey does not have a role here. Drinking water, with or without honey can help in weight loss by promoting hydration. Staying hydrated also help control appetite. But if you want to add honey here, go on it can sure make the water tasty.
  3. Balanced Diet and Exercise: The most important concept in weight loss is the holistic approach. Weight loss is a very complex process. There is no one stop remedy or one magic elixir as the claim shows. Weight loss involves balanced diet, regular exercise, and lifestyle modifications. There is also a part of genetic factors and medical conditions to consider. So, depending solely on honey water neglects the whole theory and hence cannot provide weight loss

To summarize, Honey Water Alone Isn't the Answer.

I agree, honey water is tasty and potentially healthier alternative to sugar beverages any given day. I appall the people who can add in honey water as a part of their well-rounded dietary regime. But when we are talking about weight loss and weight loss alone, honey can not be a sole contributor. Always remember the key is a Holistic Approach. It is essential to debunk the myth and understand that honey water alone cannot lead to significant weight loss. To understand more about proper way to lose weight while staying healthy and not falling for these claims always talk to your nutritionist or health care professional.

References

  1. Gulati, S., Misra, A., & Pandey, R. M. (2010). “Effect of Almond Supplementation on Glycemia and Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Asian Indians in North India with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A 24–Week Study.” Metabolic Syndrome and Related Disorders, 8(3), 267–275.
  2. Ludwig, D. S., Majzoub, J. A., Al-Zahrani, A., Dallal, G. E., Blanco, I., & Roberts, S. B. (1999). “High Glycemic Index Foods, Overeating, and Obesity.” Pediatrics, 103(3), E26.
  3. Samra, R. A., & Anderson, G. H. (2007). “Insoluble Cereal Fiber Reduces Appetite and Short-Term Food Intake and Glycemic Response to Food Consumed 75 Min Later by Healthy Men.” The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 86(4), 972–979.

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