Honey the main ingredient of melomakarono, is a natural and nutritious ingredient whose sugars, glucose and fructose, are immediately absorbed by the body, giving it energy quickly. Due to the abundance of vitamins, antioxidants, minerals, and trace elements it contains, it has cardioprotective, antioxidant, anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory action. Research has shown that some of the ingredients contained in honey have a beneficial effect on the heart through acetylcholine but also in anemia where the percentage of hemoglobin, especially in children, increases mainly due to the iron and copper it contains.

The orange juice that is added in addition to the characteristic aroma that it gives, is an excellent source of vitamins and antioxidants, enhancing the overall health benefit.

Walnuts are one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids in nature. In particular, the polyphenols contained in walnuts, in combination with omega-3 fatty acids, offer strong antioxidant protection, thanks to their ability to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.

The characteristic aroma of melomakarono is due to clove, which in turn contains significant amounts of vitamins (A, C, K and B) and minerals (manganese, selenium, potassium and magnesium). Clove contains an essential oil known as eugenol, which relieves pain, bloating, indigestion and nausea.

That is why melomakarono Chrisanthidis is the ideal choice of dessert after a meal.

Despina (Debbie) A. Mavridou is a dietitian-nutritionist (B.Sc.) and owner of Eat with D community, based in Kavala.