If you have a sweet tooth, chances are that honey is one of your go-to natural sweeteners. But when you are watching your carbohydrate intake, you might be wondering just how many carbs are in a tablespoon of honey. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at honey’s nutrition profile, and answer the question once and for all.
Nutrition Profile of Honey
Honey is a natural sweetener made by bees from the nectar of flowers. It contains a number of nutrients, including antioxidants, enzymes, and minerals like iron and calcium. However, honey is also a source of carbohydrates, which can raise concerns for those who are watching their carb intake.
A tablespoon of honey (21 grams) contains:
64 calories
17 grams of carbohydrates
16 grams of sugar
0 grams of fat
0 grams of protein
As you can see, a tablespoon of honey contains a significant amount of carbohydrates, most of which come from sugar. This means that if you are following a low-carb diet, you will need to limit your intake of honey to avoid exceeding your daily carb limit.
The Glycemic Index of Honey
The glycemic index (GI) is a measure of how quickly a food raises blood sugar levels. Foods with a high GI score are rapidly digested and absorbed, causing a rapid increase in blood sugar levels. On the other hand, foods with a low GI score are digested and absorbed more slowly, causing a slower and more gradual increase in blood sugar levels.
The GI of honey varies depending on the type of honey and how it was processed. Generally speaking, honey has a moderate to high GI score, ranging from 35 to 58. This means that honey can cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels, which can be a concern for people with diabetes or those who are trying to manage their blood sugar levels.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a tablespoon of honey contains 17 grams of carbohydrates, most of which come from sugar. While honey does provide some nutrients and health benefits, it is important to be mindful of your intake, especially if you are following a low-carb or diabetic diet. If you want to use honey as a sweetener, consider using it in moderation and opting for honey with a lower GI score.
