Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – March 10, 2026 – In the latest edition of the popular weekly health column “Living Well with Diabetes”, Dr. Annie Tan, Malaysian endocrinologist and certified Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) physician, addresses a common question: “Honey is natural—does that make it a better choice than regular sugar?”
The column provides a clear, balanced, and honest assessment of whether honey can be safely included in a diabetes-friendly diet.
Key Insights from the Column
From a Western medicine perspective, honey is primarily composed of fructose and glucose and raises blood glucose levels similarly to table sugar. While some raw varieties have a modestly lower glycemic index (around 50 compared to table sugar’s 65–80) and contain minor antioxidant properties, it still counts as a carbohydrate. Dr. Tan advises using honey sparingly — one teaspoon (approximately 6g of carbohydrate) should be counted toward your daily allowance. It is important to monitor your personal glucose response, as honey is not a “free” food.
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) viewpoint, honey (known as Feng Mi) is considered sweet and moistening. It may offer benefits for dryness or to gently tonify Qi when used in small amounts. However, if overused, it can generate dampness or phlegm, particularly in people with spleen deficiency or damp patterns common in diabetes. Some classical TCM texts recommend limiting or avoiding honey in cases of damp-heat or phlegm stagnation. Raw, unprocessed honey is generally preferred if used, but it should be treated cautiously as a sweetener.
Both perspectives agree: Honey should be treated as an occasional addition rather than a daily staple. For flavouring, Western alternatives include stevia or cinnamon, while TCM often suggests warming spices or bitter herbs. The column stresses the importance of testing your own glucose response and consulting your healthcare team before making honey a regular part of your diet.
“Honey is natural, but it is not automatically diabetes-friendly,” said Dr. Annie Tan. “Both Western science and TCM wisdom advise moderation and careful monitoring. Small amounts may fit into a balanced plan for some people, but it is always best to treat honey as a treat rather than a daily sweetener.”
This column is part of the ongoing 20-week series “Living Well with Diabetes”, which provides practical, everyday guidance by blending Western clinical guidelines (including the Malaysian Clinical Practice Guidelines on Management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus) with TCM principles.
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Sante Wellness TCM Pte Ltd is a wellness centre specialising in Traditional Chinese Medicine services, including meridian therapy and holistic care. For more information, visit www.sante-wellness.com.
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The full column is now available in print and digital editions. Readers are encouraged to follow the weekly series for more useful advice on living well with diabetes.
The column is for informational purposes only and does not replace personalised medical advice. Readers should always consult their doctors or qualified registered TCM practitioners for individual care.