Did you know that heart disease contributes to over 31 percent of deaths globally? It is considered the primary health care burden for the world’s governments — usually associated with extended hospital stays and costly medical bills.

According to the World Health Organization, cardiovascular disease is also the No. 1 killer in Saudi Arabia. Perhaps one priority COVID-19 has highlighted for health care professionals everywhere is the imperative need to focus on heart health and guard against debilitating comorbidities that heart disease can trigger.

Human use of natural bee honey dates back more than 8,000 years. Apart from the critical and proven role that natural honey plays in traditional medicine, in recent decades, several research groups have carried out clinical investigations of honey to confirm its rightful place in modern medicine. Honey has developed a reputation as a protective agent to safeguard against heart disease.

Comprising approximately 80 percent carbohydrates (35 percent glucose, 40 percent fructose, and 5 percent sucrose) as well as 20 percent water, honey has nearly 180 different substances, including amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. The goodness of natural honey has been proven to positively impact heart risks increasing active antioxidant enzymes. The regular intake of a measure of honey has been reported to significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Antioxidants present in honey have a therapeutic effect on heart health, leading to increased blood flow to the heart and reducing the risk of blood clot formation. It has also been known to cure acid reflux and treat wounds, while serving as a home remedy for ailments such as coughs or pharyngitis.

Honey is deeply rooted in the culture, religion and economy of Saudi Arabia. 

Let us resolve to seamlessly draw upon our heritage to empower our nation in tackling the rising number of heart ailments. So, the next time you are grocery shopping, include a bottle of this wholesome goodness in your baskets.

• Salah Balla is manager at Al-Shifa Honey, Sunbulah Group.