Honey Offers Low GI Response

FREIBURG, GermanyBecause low-glycemic foods have less of an impact on blood sugar levels, they are often recommended for diabetics, those with impaired glucose tolerance, and those seeking to better manage their weight. Finding a sweetener with a low glycemic index (GI) is often a challenge. However, a recent study tested the GI of eight grades of German honey, and six of the eight honeys ranked lower than 10 on the GI. Researchers discovered the fructose content of each grade of honeys tested had a significant impact on the GI of each. Results of the study are published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

The study tested eight German honey grades with different floral sources and carbohydrate compositions. A 25-g carbohydrate test meal and a 25-g glucose reference were given to 10 clinically and metabolically healthy, fasting individuals. Glycemic and insulin index were calculated by the recommended FAO/WHO measure. Five of the eight tested honey varieties show a GI below 55; for six of the eight tested varieties, the glycemic load was lower than 10 (portion size of 20g honey). The GI and insulin index correlated significantly with the fructose content of the honey varieties. Based on the results, the researchers concluded that specific honey varieties can replace saccharine in food preparations for subjects with impaired glucose tolerance.