Some research has found Manuka Honey's natural antibacterial action may have a role in fighting H. pylori, the bacteria that causes stomach ulcers. But Manuka Honey is also now known to be an effective prebiotic, boosting levels of a strain of lactobacillus, which also protects against stomach ulcers.
Studies have shown all types of honey can be beneficial in treating stomach issues. However, manuka honey has been found useful for patients who complain of stomach infections, acid reflux, gastritis, ulcers, and even diarrhea.
Evidence suggests honey might help relieve gastrointestinal tract conditions such as diarrhea associated with gastroenteritis. Honey might also be effective as part of oral rehydration therapy. Neurological disease. Studies suggest that honey might offer antidepressant, anticonvulsant and anti-anxiety benefits.
It is claimed Manuka Honey helps with reflux symptoms by “coating the stomach and oesophagus and healing the damages in the tissue and lining provoked by acid reflux”. Some people swear by having a spoon of Manuka Honey up to four times a day, 20 minutes before meals and before bed time.
Possible Side Effects of Manuka Honey
These may include: Allergic reaction, especially in people who are allergic to bees. A rise in blood sugar if large quantities are consumed. Effects on certain chemotherapy drugs and interactions with various other medicines.
Manuka honey with a higher level of methylglyoxal has a stronger effect on the swelling and the bacteria causing it. Working as an immune stimulator, it encourages a faster response in dealing with gastritis, and similar conditions such as acid reflux.
Professor Molan suggests taking a teaspoon of Manuka honey with a small amount of bread three times a day to relieve digestive issues such as acid reflux, indigestion and gastritis. Manuka's anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties help reduce the pain of these stomach complaints. What else can it be used for?
A maximum of two teaspoons a day (15g) is a good portion size of manuka honey, as while it has many impressive health benefits, it is still high in sugar. If you are using manuka honey as part of a balanced diet, try drizzling it over porridge, overnight oats or natural yogurt.
Manuka honey is thicker and darker than regular processed honey; it's more of a yellow-brown colour than the gold you might be used to. Authentic manuka will have the official “Tested Certified Manuka” gold leaf symbol. You can find these on our manuka honey jars - we only sell manuka that's 100% authentic.
However, it is best for your health to opt for raw honey. Raw honey is unprocessed and can be purchased at health food stores and vitamin shops. "It is best to always try to use raw, organic honey with no preservatives, added sugar, or any other types of additives," says Selvakumar.
Digestive issues like constipation can get worse with too much consumption of honey. The high fructose content in honey can lead to constipation, even if you don't have any existing issue. It can also lead to bloating or diarrhoea as your body cannot digest too much sugar at once.
One of the great things about being a honey lover is there are so many ways you can eat it, and Manuka honey from New Zealand is no different. 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.
Manuka honey consumed before bedtime can help the body to release melatonin into the brain which is necessary for a deep sleep and helps to reduce the risk of more serious sleep-related health issues.
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. It is safe to have 2 to 4 teaspoons (10 to 20 mL) of Manuka Honey daily, but always remember to moderate how much you consume.
Acid blockers — also called histamine (H-2) blockers — reduce the amount of acid released into your digestive tract, which relieves gastritis pain and encourages healing. Available by prescription or over the counter, acid blockers include famotidine (Pepcid), cimetidine (Tagamet HB) and nizatidine (Axid AR).
Active Manuka Honey coats the lower esophagus and protects it from irritation by acids. In case of severe heartburn, try to take 1 tea spoon after the meals or whenever you feel the burning sensation.
That's great news for the budget! Manuka honey with higher levels of antibacterial properties is most often used in skincare and for health purposes – MGO 263+ (UMF 10+) or higher. Manuka honey with, relatively, lower levels of antibacterial properties (MGO 83+ or UMF 5+) is the perfect choice for daily consumption.
You might also wonder: how long does manuka honey take to work? Well, it depends on how you take it and what you take it for. In some cases, like soothing a sore throat, you can feel the effects quickly. In other cases, it may take a little more time, but be patient!
Manuka honey has antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It gets its antibacterial effects from an active ingredient called methylglyoxal (MGO). MGO is created in manuka honey thanks to the conversion of another compound known as dihydroxyacetone (DHA).
Antacids raise the pH of stomach acid to 3.5 or above , reducing its acidity and relieving the burning sensation of acid reflux. Honey has an acidic pH of 3.2–4.5. Due to its pH value, it is unclear whether honey has a neutralizing effect on stomach acid or contributes to the increase in acidity of it.