Sugars and Misc
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      Honey

      Honey intolerance may result from its high fructose content, pollen residues, or fermentable sugars. Avoid it for 8 weeks, try supplements like probiotics or digestive enzymes, and retest. Maple syrup or coconut sugar are excellent alternatives.

      🍯 What Is Honey?

      Honey is a natural sweetener produced by bees from flower nectar. It contains simple sugars like fructose and glucose, trace vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a popular ingredient in teas, baked goods, and sauces.

      🤔 Why Do I Have an Intolerance to Honey?

      Sensitivity to honey may result from:

      • Fructose Content: Honey is high in fructose, which can cause digestive discomfort in individuals with fructose malabsorption.
      • Pollen Residues: Trace amounts of pollen or plant compounds in honey can trigger reactions in sensitive individuals.
      • Fermentable Sugars (FODMAPs): Honey contains fermentable sugars that may lead to bloating or gas in those with IBS or similar conditions.
      • Additives or Contaminants: Commercial honey might have additives or contaminants that could irritate the digestive system.

      🛠️ What Can I Do About It?

      • Eliminate honey for 8 weeks to reduce symptoms and allow your system to recover.
      • Be cautious with processed foods that might include honey as an ingredient.
      • Gradually reintroduce honey after 8 weeks and assess your tolerance before retesting.

      💊 Which Supplements Can Help?

      • Digestive Enzymes: Assist in breaking down sugars like fructose and glucose.
        digestive_enzyme_supplement
      • Probiotics: Balance gut bacteria, improving digestion and reducing sensitivity to fermentable sugars.
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      • Activated Charcoal: Helps alleviate bloating and gas caused by honey’s fermentable components.
      • L-Glutamine: Repairs the gut lining and reduces inflammation associated with food sensitivities.
        glutamine_powder

      🌟 Why Might I Have an Intolerance to Honey but Not Other Sugars?

      • Fructose Content: Honey is higher in fructose compared to other sugars, like white sugar or brown sugar, which are mostly sucrose.
      • Pollen Residues: Honey contains trace pollen and plant compounds not found in purified sugars like granulated sugar.
      • FODMAP Levels: Honey’s fermentable sugar content can cause symptoms, unlike refined sugars that lack these components.
      • Processing Differences: Refined sugars are stripped of natural compounds that might cause reactions in honey.

      🍽️ Popular Dishes and Alternatives

      Dishes:

      • Honey-glazed chicken or vegetables
      • Teas sweetened with honey
      • Honey-flavored baked goods
      • Smoothies and desserts

      Alternatives (if tolerated):

      • Maple syrup
      • Coconut sugar
      • Agave syrup