Bee-Youtiful: Honey vs Sweeteners

With so many sweeteners lining the shelves these days, it can be hard to know which one to choose. But time and time again, I find myself coming back to one of nature’s most nourishing gifts: local, organic honey.

Not only is honey delicious, but it's also packed with nutrients. It contains Vitamin C, B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), folate, and essential minerals like manganese, iron, calcium, potassium, zinc, and selenium. That’s a pretty impressive profile compared to many of the refined or artificial options out there.

What makes honey even more fascinating is the unique way it’s made. Bees contribute their own digestive enzymes to the honey-making process, enhancing its benefits—especially for your gut. It’s a naturally intelligent food.

Beyond its flavor and nutritional value, honey is a slow-burning source of energy. Thanks to its lower fructose content and trace minerals, it causes less of a blood sugar spike compared to regular sugar—meaning it has a lower glycemic index and offers more sustained energy.

And let’s not forget honey’s powerful medicinal properties: it’s anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-microbial, anti-septic, and anti-inflammatory. That’s quite the resume. Some believe that consuming honey containing local pollen may help ease seasonal allergies. While the science is still inconclusive, it’s a gentle, natural option that certainly doesn’t hurt to try.

The takeaway: While different sweeteners have their place depending on your needs, for me, honey remains the clear winner—pure, planet-friendly, and packed with goodness.