Healthy Hollywood: The Delicious Benefits Of Honey

Here’s some good news for those of us with a sweet tooth: Not all sugars are created equal.

Yes, we’ve all read and (hopefully know) that refined sugar is toxic, but nature has provided us with plenty of resources to satisfy our cravings. In fact, honey is one of the simplest and most powerful ways to sweeten things up — and improve your health.

Always try and reach for raw, organic honey in order to reap the most benefits. At just 64 calories per tablespoon, honey is a natural energy booster, can improve your immune system and clear up your skin – amongst other things.

The National Honey Board shared with Healthy Hollywood some honey-inspired recipes to bring out your best from the inside out.

Pina Colada & Honey Power Smoothie

• 1 to 2 tbsp. honey
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup low fat coconut milk
• 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
• 1/2 cup ice
• 1 scoop whey protein, vanilla

Combine all ingredients in a blender.

Honey-Peanut Butter Energy Balls

• 1 1/4 cup old fashioned oats
• 3 tbsp. shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup slice almonds
• 1 tbsp. hemp seeds
• 1 scoop whey protein powder
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/2 cup dried apricots
• 1/2 cup peanut butter

In a medium bowl add the oats, coconut, almonds, hemp seeds and protein powder. Stir until evenly distributed. Add the honey, apricots and peanut butter and stir well. Put mixing bowl into the refrigerator for about 20 to 30 minutes. Then roll into rounded balls.

Pumpkin Pie Enzyme Mask

• 3 to 4 tbsp. ground oats
• 1 tbsp. milk or heavy cream
• 2 tbsp. crushed pineapple
• 3/4cup pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup honey

Mix ground oats and milk in a bowl. Add crushed pineapple and pumpkin, draining excess water out of fresh pumpkin by squeezing it in a paper towel. Thoroughly blend the ingredients. While stirring, slowly drizzle in the honey, mixing well. Refrigerate in tight container for 10 to 14 days. Apply liberally with fingertips to face and neck area. Leave mask of for 8 to 10 minutes. Rinse well with warm water and pat dry.

For more recipes, check out www.honey.com.

— Terri MacLeod