HealthLinks Charleston March/April 2023

www. Char l es tonPhys i c i ans . com | www.Hea l thL i nksChar l es ton . com | 87 FAST FACT: HONEY’S ETERNAL SHELF LIFE In 2015, archeologists reported that they’d found 3,000-yearold honey while excavating tombs in Egypt, and it was perfectly edible – an “unmistakable testament to the eternal shelf-life of honey,” according to a 2013 Smithsonian Magazine article by Natasha Gelling titled “The Science Behind Honey’s Eternal Shelf Life.” Honey is low in water and high in sugar, which contributes to it durability because bacteria cannot grow in it. A BEE PRODUCT A DAY KEEPS MANY ICKS AWAY Bee enthusiast, expert, entrepreneur, philanthropist and Savannah Bee Company owner Ted Dennard blogs about bees on his company’s website. The following information was gleaned from his blogs. For full posts, see savannahbee.com/ blogs/the-latest-buzz. ROYAL JELLY HEALTH BENEFITS Scientific research backs up its ability to: • Reduce inflammation; • Reduce blood glucose levels in diabetic patients; • Prevent heart disease; • Increase reproductive health; • Repair skin and wounds; • Increase immunity. THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF PROPOLIS Propolis’ ability to fight off bacteria, viruses and other disease-causing microbes, from staving off colds and flu to antibiotic-resistant strains of MRSA, has been documented in many research studies. It’s also been shown to be an effective, lowcost treatment for nail infections caused by a pervasive fungus that’s no match for propolis’ antifungal powers. It’s also been proven to improve oral health and cancel bad breath. There is promising evidence it can help with other conditions as well, including depression, herpes and cancer. THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF POLLEN Some people use pollen as a superfood that provides essential amino acids, vitamins and minerals. Others look for benefits from other properties in bee pollen shown in scientific studies: • Antioxidants that can help reduce cell damage caused by free radicals; • Antimicrobial profiles that are useful in fighting off disease-causing pathogens; • Anti-inflammatory effects that may reduce swelling, pain and other symptoms. OTHER POTENTIAL BENEFITS OF BEE POLLEN Recent studies have suggested more exciting developments for human health. While it’s too soon to make sweeping claims, there have been major advancement in the following areas: • Wound healing; • Boosting immunity; • Helping to keep your heart healthy; • Fighting cancer.

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