Honey varies in color from almost clear to very dark, depending on the floral source and its location, as well as the climate.

Vitamins And Minerals:

Raw honey is rich in vitamins and minerals. Vitamin B6, thiamin, niacin, riboflavin and pantothenic acid are common vitamins found in raw honey, but amounts vary by floral type of honey. The minerals calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, sodium and zinc are abundant in raw honey.

Antioxidants

Antioxidants abound in raw honey, fighting off free radicals that contribute to many serious diseases. These antioxidants are present in the form of polyphenols.

Carbohydrates

Packed with natural sugar — primarily fructose and glucose — raw honey is high in carbohydrates. Seventeen g of carbohydrates are in each TBSP, 16 of which are from sugar. According to a 2001 University of Memphis study, raw honey is one of the most effective pre-exercise carbohydrates.

Calories

Each TBSP of raw honey contains 64 calories. It is fat-free, cholesterol-free and sodium-free. The average composition of raw honey is approximately 80 percent carbohydrates, 18 percent water and 2 percent vitamins, minerals and amino acids.