Having high LDL cholesterol levels is an important risk factor for heart disease.
It plays a major role in atherosclerosis, the fatty buildup in the arteries that can lead to heart attacks and strokes.
Interestingly, several studies have shown that honey can improve your cholesterol levels.
It reduces total and LDL cholesterol, while significantly raising HDL (the "good") cholesterol (9, 10, 11, 16).
For example, one study in 55 patients compared honey to table sugar. It found that it caused a 5.8% reduction in LDL and a 3.3% increase in HDL. It also caused weight loss of 1.3%, compared to sugar (17).
Bottom Line:
Honey seems to have a positive effect on cholesterol levels. It leads to modest reductions in total and LDL cholesterol, while raising HDL.