One important process that takes place during skeletal illnesses and injuries is the regeneration of bone tissue. Products made from honeybees have demonstrated encouraging benefits for the skeleton because of their antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory qualities. In ovariectomized (OVX) rats, honey administration along with low- and high-intensity jumping exercise resulted in an increase in trabecular bone thickness, according to Mosavat et al.'s study [94]. Furthermore, there was an increase in blood luteinizing hormone levels in the honey plus exercise group.
In addition to calcium, flavonoids and phenolic acids are among the other minerals in honey that support bone health. Moreover, it possesses immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant qualities. It also contains the peptide lysozyme, which can stop the growth of bacteria by dissolving the connection that exists in bacterial cell walls between N-acetylmuramic acid and N-acetyl-D-glucosamine.
Honey can improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood triglyceride and cholesterol levels, helping to treat metabolic syndrome, a risk factor for diabetes and osteoporosis. Additionally, investigations on animals have demonstrated that it increases bone production and promotes the development of mesenchymal stem cells.
Honey is a natural sweetener and a good source of vitamin B6 and other antioxidants. It can also be used in place of white sugar. The absorption and bioavailability of other vitamins and minerals, including magnesium, zinc, and vitamin D, can be facilitated by its bacterial-inhibiting qualities. Furthermore, its low water content and high osmolarity encourage hydration, which is crucial for maintaining the structural integrity of the bones.
One essential ingredient that is needed for the control of calcium homeostasis, bone synthesis, and cellular energy production is magnesium (Mg). The European Food Safety Authority (2009) states that while serum magnesium levels are generally normal, they can be low or insufficient in those who have a poor diet, underlying medical disorders, gastrointestinal malabsorption, or are taking specific drugs.
In cohort research looking at BMD in the hip and femoral neck, it was discovered that postmenopausal women with higher magnesium consumption had higher BMD. Mahdavi-Roshan et al. (2014) reported that no correlation was observed with fracture risk or other bodily sites.
It's critical to see magnesium, calcium, and vitamin D as allies because they complement one another and are necessary for the best possible bone health. For instance, while magnesium helps control and enhance intestinal calcium absorption and stimulates osteoblast development, it also activates vitamin D and binds to the bone receptor calcitonin. Furthermore, studies have demonstrated that magnesium upregulates the expression of pro-peptide type 1 procollagen, a biomarker for the development of bone.
Zinc is an essential nutrients for healthy bones. It aids in the formation of new bone and stops bone deterioration. Moreover, it lessens inflammation, which can harm bones. Zinc consumption on a daily basis is crucial for keeping strong bones, particularly in elderly persons.
Honey has been found in numerous studies to possess anti-obesity, antidiabetic, hypolipidemic, antioxidant, and antibacterial, antiviral, and immune-modulating qualities. Honey has a number of qualities that make it a potential treatment for Metabolic Syndrome (MetS), a condition linked to decreased bone density in postmenopausal women.
According to some research, a rich zinc diet may help prevent osteoporosis by delaying the process known as bone resorption, which is the disintegration of bone tissue. Zinc may prevent osteoclast formation by obstructing two routes that promote bone resorption. Another study showed that honey has a positive impact on bone marrow cell (BMC) development into osteoblasts by increasing the mechanical strength and osteogenic qualities of calcium-phosphate cement.
