Manuka honey produces a prebiotic called fructo-oligosaccharides, which helps probiotics in the gut to stay healthy. Emerging research has also found Manuka to be effective in eradicating more than 50 species of harmful bacteria, many of which specifically target our digestive system!
Certain honeys from specific plants are more effective than others. Manuka honey that comes from New Zealand Manuka bush is one such example. It has been found to be an effective therapy for digestive complaints ranging from acid reflux, gastritis, diarrhoea, ulcers, H. pylori to fungal infections.
In 1994, Professor Molan and his team suggested taking a teaspoon of manuka honey three times a day to relieve digestive issues such as acid reflux, indigestion and gastritis.
Manuka Honey Promotes Healthy Gut Bacteria
These beneficial bacteria are called Probiotics, and they help the body by promoting good digestion, bolstering a strong immune system, maintaining energy levels and more.
“Research shows that manuka honey can increase gastric levels of certain enzymes that prevent against or protect against oxidative damage,” says Flora. “So it can reduce inflammation and help prevent gastric ulcers.”
Current research suggests that certain kinds of honey can reduce the presence of infection-causing bacteria in the gut including Salmonella, Escherichia coli, and Clostridiodes difficile, while simultaneously stimulating the growth of potentially beneficial species, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria.
Your immune system reacts to the bacteria and causes inflammation which can result in bloating and discomfort. The enzymes in Manuka Honey help to calm the stomach down by attacking the bacteria and normalising the pH level in your stomach, allowing it to go back to normal levels.
When is the best time to take manuka honey? However, anecdotal evidence suggests that consuming food on an empty stomach is best if you want it to reach your gut faster, but always check with a medical professional if you're unsure of the best approach for you.
The manuka honey is now replete with bioactive compounds including antioxidants and probiotics - the very probiotics that play a crucial role in keeping your stomach and gut healthy and your digestive system working in top form.
Honey is sugar and is recommended to avoid during the protocol. However, for some without issues such as yeast overgrowth or blood sugar control, small amounts of raw local honey may be okay.
From supercharging your breakfasts, stirring into hot drinks, or simply taken off the spoon every morning or night – there is no right or wrong way to take Manuka honey. It is simply a question of your own personal preference and getting into a routine that suits you.
Manuka honey significantly decreased the ulcer index, completely protected the mucosa from lesions, and preserved gastric mucosal glycoprotein. It significantly increased gastric mucosal levels of NO, GSH, GPx, and SOD. Manuka honey also decreased gastric mucosal MDA and plasma TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 concentrations.
Various ways of using Honey for Digestion :
You can also consume hot water by adding a tinge of honey (one tablespoon) every morning.
Both regular and manuka honey have digestive effects that may help relieve IBS symptoms, though the methylglyoxal in manuka honey may worsen symptoms.
Manuka honey also has potent anti-inflammatory properties and supports intestinal healing, making it effective alongside a leaky gut healing protocol for IBS and IBD.
Does manuka honey need to be refrigerated? No, you should avoid refrigerating your manuka honey. It is best stored in a cool, dark place like a cupboard or pantry. Refrigeration of any honey — not just the special manuka variety — can cause crystallisation.
Although you can add it to smoothies, oatmeal or yoghurt, the best way to take Manuka Honey is straight from the jar. It is recommended to take it once in the morning and once at night.
You can take the honey any time of day, or try taking your manuka honey once in the morning and once at night. There's no harm in consuming more than 2 to 4 teaspoons (10 to 20 mL) of manuka honey daily, but since honey is mostly sugar, it is a good idea to moderate how much you consume.
Manuka may be great for reflux sufferers, and it may also potentially help heal Barrett's esophagus. Some of my patients have reported improved stomach and reflux symptoms after eating the honey or drinking it in hot water as tea.
Honey is believed to be a beneficial home remedy to alleviate constipation. You can be either taken raw or added to milk, tea or water. The results are more beneficial when you add honey, with warm water along with a few drops of lemon juice. The enzymes in honey treat constipation and stabilize digestion.
Raw honey may be good for your gut.
Prebiotics, like raw honey, are just as critical for gut health because they are made of fiber that our bodies cannot digest. Prebiotics can, however, be digested by probiotics (live beneficial bacteria in our gut). So prebiotics are the food source for probiotics.
Drinking plenty of water and staying hydrated is a great way to regulate digestion. Drinking lukewarm water has been shown to be good for digestion as well. Also, try eating plenty of foods high in water content. This includes fruits and vegetables like watermelons, tomatoes, lettuce, and celery.
Manuka can apparently also boost energy, “detox” your system, lower cholesterol, stave off diabetes, improve sleep, increase skin tone, reduce hair loss and even prevent frizz and split ends.