Honey, also known as high cypress, white honey or honey jelly, is sweet, neutral, laxative, convenient, is a natural sweetener that can be used at many different times of the day. Especially before sleeping, drinking honey can bring many health benefits.
1. Improves Sleep Quality
The natural sugars in honey slightly raise insulin levels, allowing the sleep-inducing amino acid tryptophan to enter the brain more easily. Once there, it is converted to serotonin, which is then transformed into melatonin, a hormone critical for sleep regulation. Additionally, honey can ensure a steady supply of liver glycogen overnight, preventing or limiting the early morning release of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline that can cause waking.
2. Enhances Gastrointestinal Health
One honey’s ancient use was to soothe digestive issues. Even today, a little honey before bed can support overnight digestion and repair the gut lining. It has prebiotic properties, feeding the good bacteria in the gut, which helps mitigate issues like bloating or indigestion that may otherwise disrupt your sleep.
3. Supports Immune Function
Honey is known for its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, thanks to components such as hydrogen peroxide and an acidity level that’s inhospitable to bacteria. Regular intake can help build your immune defense system. By taking honey before sleep, you give your body the chance to fight off pathogens with fewer disturbances.
4. Provides Antioxidant Benefits
Many types of honey are rich in antioxidants, including phenolic acids and flavonoids, which can help neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS) that contribute to tissue damage and inflammatory processes. These antioxidant properties are beneficial in preventing disease and are optimally utilized by the body during rest.
5. Encourages Wound Healing
Even during sleep, your body works tirelessly to repair and heal. Honey’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties can be particularly beneficial for recovery, not only when applied topically to wounds but also when ingested, as the components in honey can circulate throughout the body, providing a supportive environment for tissue regeneration.
6. Can Help with Weight Management
It might appear counterproductive to eat something sweet before bed if you’re watching your weight, but a small amount of honey might stimulate hormones that help regulate fat metabolism. The key is moderation; a tablespoon or less can help rather than hinder your efforts.
