Honey contains a fairly high amount of fructose. When entering the body, fructose can promote purine synthesis during metabolism, thereby increasing uric acid production. If uric acid accumulates for a long time, the risk of developing gout also increases.
Many people believe that only seafood or alcohol increase uric acid, so they still use honey regularly because they think it is a healthy food. However, experts say that consuming too many sweets rich in fructose, including honey, can also cause the uric acid index to increase.
Elderly people need to pay special attention because the function of uric acid excretion often declines with age. If you use a lot of foods containing fructose for a long time, the body is prone to uric acid buildup. Some patients said that they have a habit of drinking honey water every day and after about a week, acute gout pain appears, with manifestations of swelling, heat, and severe pain in the toe joints.
Nutrition experts recommend that the daily amount of honey should not exceed 20 grams, equivalent to about a tablespoon. Excessive use of honey not only increases the metabolic burden but can also affect uric acid and blood sugar levels. People with a history of gout, high uric acid or diabetes (diabetes) should consult a doctor before using honey regularly.
In addition to the dosage, the time to drink honey also needs to be noted. Many people have a habit of drinking honey water on an empty stomach in the early morning, but this is not really appropriate. Experts say that a better time is between meals, around 10 am or 3-4 pm. Then, the amount of food left in the stomach can help reduce mucous membrane irritation and limit discomfort.
The temperature of honey mixing also affects nutritional value. Using water that is too hot can lose active enzymes and some vitamins in honey. Warm water at about 40 degrees Celsius is considered the most suitable to retain beneficial nutrients.
