Peter Molan, a doctor from New Zealand, is a specialist in stomach disorders. He offers his patients a simple, but effective alternative to taking medicine: honey. Dr Molan claims the active component in honey is an antibacterial agent called UMF. There is some doubt in the medical world as to whether UMF can destroy bacteria completely, but research clearly shows that people with stomach problems experience some relief soon after taking honey.
Is this yet another case of science simply giving credibility to what we have always known? After all, it is common knowledge how soothing hot water laced with honey and lemon can be for sore-throat sufferers. In accepting the beneficial effects of honey, however, a few reservations should be borne in mind. Firstly, the popular belief that honey is healthier than sugar isn't entirely well-founded.Like all foods, honey can be healthy when eaten in moderation, but may also have some downsides. Honey contains the same number of calories as other types of sugar, and it can cause blood-sugar levels to rise quickly. Secondly, eating too much honey on an empty stomach can cause discomfort. That is why it's best to line the stomach with some fibre first, for example by following a main meal with a dessert that incorporates honey. Thirdly, under no circumstances should a baby's dummy be dipped in honey before the baby sucks it, as this is just as likely to cause tooth decay as any other sugary treat.
