Category: Manuka honey for gut health

Introduction

Manuka honey, derived from the Manuka bush found in New Zealand and Australia, is a unique type of honey known for its remarkable antimicrobial properties. This honey stands out from others due to its active element, methylglyoxal (MGO), which contributes to its antibacterial, antioxidant, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory attributes. For centuries, manuka honey has been utilized as a natural remedy for various ailments and has been valued by Indigenous people for its healing properties.

In this article, we will explore the amazing health benefits of manuka honey, with a specific focus on its role in promoting gut health. We will discuss how manuka honey can aid in wound healing, soothe sore throats, support gut health, aid in gastric ulcer treatment, help with gastroenteritis, exhibit antiviral properties, combat antibiotic-resistant infections, prevent dental plaque, aid in managing cystic fibrosis, and be effective against inflammatory skin conditions.

Promotes Healing of Wounds

Manuka honey has been widely recognized for its ability to support the healing process and reduce pain when applied directly to wounds. In fact, the US Food and Drug Administration has approved manuka honey as a treatment option for wounds. The antimicrobial properties of manuka honey, attributed to its active component MGO, help prevent infection and promote faster healing.

Moreover, manuka honey creates a moist environment that aids in wound healing by providing a protective barrier and preventing the formation of scabs. This allows the growth of new skin cells and reduces the risk of scarring.

Soothes Sore Throats

Combining honey and lemon has long been a popular remedy for coughs and colds. Studies have shown that honey is more effective than over-the-counter cough suppressants in relieving coughs, leading to revised guidelines recommending honey as a first-line treatment for coughs.

Manuka honey, with its potent antimicrobial properties, can help soothe sore throats caused by infections. Its ability to reduce inflammation and fight off bacteria makes it an excellent natural remedy for throat discomfort.

Supports Gut Health

Maintaining a healthy gut is crucial for overall well-being, and manuka honey can play a significant role in supporting gut health. Manuka honey acts as a prebiotic, providing non-digestible carbohydrates that nourish beneficial bacteria in the gut.

The prebiotic properties of manuka honey promote the growth of good bacteria, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, while inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria. This helps maintain a balanced gut microbiome and supports optimal digestion and nutrient absorption.

May Aid in Gastric Ulcer Treatment

Gastric ulcers can cause significant discomfort and may lead to complications if left untreated. Research has shown that manuka honey has the potential to protect against the damaging effects of gastric ulcers.

The anti-inflammatory properties of manuka honey help reduce inflammation in the stomach lining, while its antimicrobial properties help manage infections that can contribute to the development and progression of gastric ulcers. Additionally, manuka honey acts as a natural barrier, safeguarding the gut lining from further damage.

May Help with Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis, commonly known as the stomach flu, is characterized by inflammation of the stomach and intestines. It is often caused by viral or bacterial infections, such as clostridium difficile.

Evidence suggests that manuka honey, with its antibacterial properties, can assist in treating gut infections like clostridium difficile. Furthermore, manuka honey can help reduce the duration of symptoms associated with gastroenteritis, such as diarrhea, due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.

Exhibits Antiviral Properties

In addition to its antibacterial properties, manuka honey has been found to exhibit antiviral properties. Studies have shown that manuka honey has the potential to inhibit the replication of influenza viruses and shingles.

While further research is needed to fully understand the antiviral effects of manuka honey, these findings are promising and suggest that it may have the potential to be used as a natural antiviral agent.

May Combat Antibiotic-Resistant Infections

The rise of antibiotic-resistant infections is a growing concern worldwide. As traditional antibiotics become less effective, alternative therapies are being explored. Recent studies have shown the potential of medical-grade honey, such as manuka honey, in treating multidrug-resistant infections.

The unique composition of manuka honey, including its high levels of MGO, makes it effective against a wide range of bacteria, including antibiotic-resistant strains. Manuka honey can disrupt the growth and survival of bacteria, making it a valuable tool in the fight against antibiotic resistance.

Helps Prevent Dental Plaque

Contrary to expectations, manuka honey’s antibacterial properties make it beneficial for dental health. Dental plaque is a sticky film that forms on teeth and can lead to gum diseases like gingivitis.

The antimicrobial properties of manuka honey can help minimize the buildup of dental plaque, reducing the risk of gum diseases. Regular use of manuka honey as part of an oral hygiene routine may contribute to better overall dental health.

Aids in Managing Cystic Fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that affects the lungs and other organs. Upper respiratory infections are common in individuals with cystic fibrosis and can lead to complications.

Manuka honey’s potent antibacterial properties can enhance the effects of antibiotics in cystic fibrosis patients with upper respiratory infections. It may serve as a valuable treatment strategy in managing these infections and improving the quality of life for individuals with cystic fibrosis.

Effective Against Inflammatory Skin Conditions

In addition to its antibacterial and wound-healing properties, manuka honey is being researched for its potential in treating inflammatory skin conditions such as rosacea and acne. Test tube studies have shown that manuka honey has the ability to modulate the immune system of the skin, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.

The antioxidant properties of manuka honey also contribute to its effectiveness in managing skin disorders. Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals, which can contribute to inflammation and skin damage.

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Incorporating Manuka Honey into Your Diet

To enjoy the health benefits of manuka honey while avoiding excessive sugar consumption, it is recommended to have a maximum of two teaspoons (15g) per day. You can incorporate manuka honey into your balanced diet by drizzling it over porridge, overnight oats, or natural yogurt. Be sure to choose reputable brands that undergo lab testing for authenticity and MGO grade rating.

Overall, manuka honey can be a valuable addition to your diet and daily routine. Its remarkable antimicrobial properties, along with its potential to support wound healing, soothe sore throats, promote gut health, aid in gastric ulcer treatment, help with gastroenteritis, exhibit antiviral properties, combat antibiotic-resistant infections, prevent dental plaque, aid in managing cystic fibrosis, and be effective against inflammatory skin conditions, make it a versatile and beneficial natural remedy. Incorporate manuka honey into your wellness routine and reap the numerous health benefits it has to offer.

Often it feels like tasty foods and healthy foods are completely separate, as it’s hard to find a food that delivers on both fronts. However, raw Manuka honey is one of the rare foods that ticks both of these boxes and more.

The Magic of Manuka: A Nutritional Profile

Manuka honey comes from the Manuka tea tree in New Zealand and is made by bees who collect the nectar to create a sweet, creamy, and healthy honey. The natural nutrients found uniquely in this plant give Manuka honey a range of impressive health benefits. When you choose raw Manuka honey, you can support your healthy lifestyle while also enjoying a delicious addition to your routine.

Manuka honey has gained extensive popularity for its potential to support your overall health. Although many honey types offer benefits, Manuka honey exists in a class of its own. The real powers of Manuka honey rely on its impressive nutritional profile.

Similar to other forms of honey, Manuka honey has active properties and works great as a natural sweetener. However, Manuka honey sets itself apart from other forms of honey in several ways. Manuka honey contains multiple bioactive compounds and nutrients not found in other honeys; these properties provide powerful wellness support.

The health-promoting nutrients in Manuka honey include:

1. Methylglyoxal – Methylglyoxal (MGO) is a compound unique to Manuka honey and is responsible for providing it with its antimicrobial properties. The best Manuka honey features an MGO rating that indicates the potency of the compound in the honey. The higher the potency, the higher the benefits.

2. Antioxidants – Manuka contains significantly higher levels of antioxidants than regular honey. 70% of these are from Leptosperin, a powerful antioxidant from the Manuka nectar that is not found in any other honey or food.

3. Prebiotics – Manuka contains a range of prebiotics, including a unique oligosaccharide called ‘panose’.

With these special nutrients, Manuka honey provides support in a range of areas and gives it unique powers not found in any other honey.

Health Benefits of Manuka Honey

Many people enjoy honey because of its sweet taste. Manuka honey has a bolder caramel taste profile that is slightly less sweet, but this delicious flavor also comes with so much more. Thanks to the special nutrients found in this super honey, you can enjoy a wide range of potential benefits when you add Manuka honey to a healthy lifestyle and balanced diet.

Supports Digestive Health

Consuming Manuka honey can support a healthy digestive system in a wide range of ways. Manuka honey has also been shown to have some prebiotic properties, helping to support the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut. Beneficial gut bacteria play an essential role in supporting the proper function of the digestive system and breaking down food.

Another benefit of consuming Manuka honey is its ability to promote a healthy balance of bacteria in the stomach, which can support a healthy stomach lining.

Supports Immune Health

The antibacterial properties of Manuka honey act as a natural remedy that can play a significant part in helping to support a healthy immune system. There are many ways in which this Honey with Superpowers™ may promote overall immune health and wellness.

Your immune system is constantly working to keep pathogens out of your body. Studies have shown that Manuka honey, with its MGO content, can inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria. By helping to keep negative bacteria at bay, Manuka honey can be a great support to your immune system working to do the same thing.

Provides Clean, Long-Lasting Energy

On top of the many direct benefits of Manuka honey, this special form of honey offers benefits in choosing it alone. Manuka honey has a lower glycemic index (GI) than sugar, which means that it is less likely to spike your blood sugar like other sweeteners will. By acting as an alternative to sugar and other sweeteners, Manuka honey may also support healthy energy levels and avoid the harsh blood sugar spikes and crashes that come with consuming a lot of sugar.

Versatile Uses of Manuka Honey

One of the best parts about Manuka honey is that it doesn’t take much effort to enjoy the benefits. There are so many ways to include this super honey in your lifestyle, allowing you to support your health in a delicious way.

Some of the great Manuka honey uses include:

• Take it straight – Enjoy a creamy caramel treat without the guilt. Just take a spoonful of Manuka honey and let it slowly melt in your mouth.
• As a functional sweetener – The ultimate replacement for refined sugar. Add Manuka honey to your favorite meals or beverages (just avoid exposing it to excessive heat, such as baking or BBQ, which can degrade certain bioactive properties).
• As a topping – Top off your toast, ice cream, yogurt, or oatmeal with Manuka honey to boost the yumminess and functionality.

No matter how you choose to enjoy this super honey, make it a part of your routine to support a healthy lifestyle. You can consume this Honey with Superpowers™ daily to enjoy the potential health benefits. We recommend taking about one to three heaping teaspoons each day.

Add Manuka Honey to Your Daily Routine

Not only is Manuka honey a great source of antioxidants with a wide range of health benefits, but it is also incredibly yummy. With this one-two punch, adding Manuka honey into your daily routine is an excellent choice to keep your taste buds and your health happy.

At Manukora, we produce raw, delicious Manuka honey of the highest grade using ethical production practices. All of our honey undergoes third-party testing that we make available through our QR trace system.

The creamy texture and caramel taste make it easy to indulge in this Honey with Superpowers™ guilt-free. Explore our full collection of Manuka honey to experience the creamy caramel goodness for yourself.

Sources:

• Antioxidant properties and antimicrobial activity of Manuka honey versus Polish honeys | PMC
• Influence of Dietary Factors on Helicobacter pylori and CagA Seroprevalence in Bulgaria | Hindawi
• Identification and quantification of methylglyoxal as the dominant antibacterial constituent of Manuka (Leptospermum scoparium) honeys from New Zealand | PMC
• Health Benefits of Manuka Honey as an Essential Constituent for Tissue Regeneration | PMC
• Honey and Diabetes: The Importance of Natural Simple Sugars in Diet for Preventing and Treating Different Type of Diabetes | PMC

Manuka honey has gained popularity as a natural remedy with numerous health benefits. It is known for its potential antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a versatile ingredient for promoting overall well-being. In this article, we will explore the various health benefits of Manuka honey, with a specific focus on its potential effects on gut health.

What is Manuka Honey?

Manuka honey is a special type of honey that is native to New Zealand and Australia. It is produced by bees that feed on the nectar of the Manuka bush, which is unique to these regions. Compared to regular honey, Manuka honey has a stronger punch in terms of its antibacterial properties and nutritional balance.

Unique Compounds and Properties

Manuka honey contains special compounds that contribute to its health benefits. While regular honey derives its antibacterial properties from hydrogen peroxide, Manuka honey contains a compound called methylglyoxal (MGO), which is responsible for its antibacterial effects. Additionally, Manuka honey is rich in bioactive compounds like flavonoids and polyphenols, which have strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Nutrition Profile

Manuka honey is packed with vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, making it more nutritionally dense than regular honey. It also contains leptosperin, a compound derived from the nectar of Manuka bushes, which serves as a marker of pure Manuka honey.

UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) Trademark

Manuka honey is graded based on its germ-killing strength using the UMF rating system. The UMF rating takes into account the levels of MGO, a type of fatty acid called DHA, and leptosperin in the honey. A higher UMF rating indicates a stronger antibacterial effect and higher quality honey.

Top Health Benefits of Manuka Honey

Manuka honey offers a wide range of health benefits, including its potential effects on gut health. Let’s explore some of its key benefits:

1. Supports Gut Health

As a prebiotic, Manuka honey promotes the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, such as bifidobacteria and lactobacilli. This can help improve digestion and alleviate symptoms like belly pain and diarrhea. Lab studies have shown that Manuka honey may also have the ability to combat harmful gut bacteria, such as Clostridioides difficile, which can cause severe diarrhea and bowel swelling.

2. May Help Manage Gastric Ulcers

Studies suggest that Manuka honey may have anti-inflammatory properties that can help manage gastric ulcers. It may also support the healing process of the stomach lining. Animal and lab studies have provided evidence for the potential benefits of Manuka honey in managing stomach ulcers, but more human trials are needed to confirm these findings.

3. Aids Wound Healing

Manuka honey is widely recognized for its ability to promote wound healing. When applied topically, it creates a moist environment that protects the wound from infection. Its antibacterial properties help prevent and manage infections, while its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties support tissue regeneration and reduce pain. Clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy of Manuka honey in healing various types of wounds, burns, and diabetic ulcers.

4. Improves Oral Health

Manuka honey can contribute to better oral health by inhibiting harmful oral bacteria that cause dental plaque and gum diseases. Studies have shown a reduction in dental plaque and gingivitis with the use of Manuka honey. Its germ-killing powers make it an effective natural remedy for maintaining oral hygiene and preventing oral health issues.

5. Provides Relief for Coughs and Sore Throats

Manuka honey has soothing properties that can help alleviate cough symptoms and soothe sore throats. It coats the throat, providing relief from pain and irritation. Clinical studies have suggested that honey, including Manuka honey, may be more effective in reducing cough symptoms compared to over-the-counter cough suppressants. National health guidelines even recommend the use of honey for cough relief.

6. Potential Benefits for Patients with Cystic Fibrosis

Manuka honey has shown promise in managing symptoms of cystic fibrosis, a genetic disorder that affects the lungs and digestive system. It inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria responsible for upper respiratory infections, making it a potential treatment option for cystic fibrosis patients. Lab studies have also demonstrated its antiviral properties, further supporting its potential benefits for managing infections.

Choosing the Best Manuka Honey

When choosing Manuka honey, it is important to select a top-quality product to ensure you reap all its health benefits. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:

UMF Rating Guide

Look for the Unique Manuka Factor (UMF) rating on the product label. This rating verifies the quality and potency of the honey. The higher the UMF rating, the stronger the antibacterial properties and health benefits.

Factors to Consider When Buying

Ensure that the Manuka honey is sourced from New Zealand or Australia and is marked with a UMF trademark. This ensures that you are purchasing an authentic product. While top-rated Manuka honey may be more expensive, it offers a more potent health punch.

Tips for Storing Manuka Honey

To maintain the freshness and quality of Manuka honey, store it in a cool, dark, and dry place. Make sure the container is tightly sealed to prevent moisture from entering.

Proper Use and Dosage

To fully harness the health benefits of Manuka honey, it is important to use it correctly. Here are some guidelines to keep in mind:

Healthy Manuka Honey Portions

A typical serving size of Manuka honey is 1-2 teaspoons (5-10 grams) per day. However, it is important to remember that Manuka honey is high in sugar, so moderation is key.

Using Manuka Honey for Different Health Benefits

If you plan to use Manuka honey for specific health benefits, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. They can guide you on the proper dosage and method of use based on your individual needs. The dosage and application may vary depending on the specific condition, such as wound dressings, skin conditions, or digestive support.

Safety Measures

While Manuka honey is generally safe for most people, it is important to consult your healthcare provider if you have diabetes, allergies to honey or bees, or any other health concerns. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also seek guidance from their healthcare provider before using Manuka honey.

Conclusion

Manuka honey is a versatile natural remedy that offers numerous health benefits. Its unique antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties make it a valuable addition to any health routine. From promoting wound healing to improving oral health and supporting gut health, Manuka honey is a jack of all trades. When purchasing Manuka honey, look for a top-quality product with a high UMF rating. Use it in moderation and consult a healthcare professional for specific health concerns. With these considerations in mind, you can harness the potential benefits of Manuka honey and support your overall well-being.

Manuka honey has long been used anecdotally to treat various digestive issues, such as gastritis, colitis, and gastric ulcers. But what does the research say? Can manuka honey actually help in treating digestive problems? The answer is, maybe. In this article, we will explore several scientific studies to shed some light on the potential effectiveness of manuka honey in treating digestive issues.

Manuka Honey’s Antibacterial Properties

The special antibacterial activity of manuka honey was first discovered in the 1980s. Since then, numerous studies have demonstrated its effectiveness in killing different types of bacteria. In fact, manuka honey has been specifically tested and shown to be effective against over 50 types of bacteria, including those commonly associated with digestive issues such as Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), Clostridium difficile (C. diff), Escherichia coli (E. coli), Salmonella enteritidis, Salmonella typhimurium, and Staphylococcus aureus (staph).

The overgrowth of these bacteria can lead to severe food poisoning, gastritis, peptic ulcers, and colitis. Therefore, manuka honey’s antibacterial properties may play a role in treating these digestive disorders.

Manuka Honey’s Anti-Inflammatory Qualities

Inflammation of the stomach and intestinal lining often accompanies many digestive issues. This inflammation can be uncomfortable and may disrupt nutrient absorption, causing further damage in severe cases. While researchers are still studying the complex mechanics of how honey’s anti-inflammatory action works, numerous studies have documented its anti-inflammatory activity, particularly in wound healing.

Therefore, manuka honey’s anti-inflammatory qualities may help alleviate inflammation associated with digestive disorders and promote healing.

Manuka Honey as a Prebiotic

A recent study found that manuka honey not only kills common pathogenic gut bacteria like H. pylori and C. diff, but it also acts as a prebiotic. This means that while manuka honey doesn’t contain probiotic bacteria itself, it promotes the growth of existing probiotic bacteria.

This is particularly exciting because most antibiotic treatments do not distinguish between good and bad bacteria, often killing beneficial bacteria along with the harmful ones. This can create imbalances if the bad bacteria grow back faster than the good bacteria. Manuka honey’s prebiotic properties may help restore balance to the gut microbiome.

Research on Manuka Honey and Digestive Issues

While manuka honey has demonstrated potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties in research studies, its effectiveness in the human digestive system is still being studied. Currently, there are limited studies examining manuka honey’s ability to treat digestive issues. However, some studies provide valuable insights.

Study 1:

A study conducted by the Chandigarh Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research investigated the effectiveness of manuka honey in treating colitis in rats, a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The researchers found that rats treated with manuka honey experienced significantly reduced colonic inflammation and improved antioxidant parameters.

It is worth noting that the smallest dosage used in this study was 5 grams per kilogram of body weight, which is equivalent to approximately 10 tablespoons of honey per day for a 100-pound person. This dosage may not be practical or healthy for regular consumption.

Study 2:

Another study involving rats tested the effectiveness of manuka honey in treating gastric ulcers. The researchers compared manuka honey to omeprazole, a commonly used drug for gastric ulcers. Manuka honey outperformed omeprazole in several categories measured to determine effectiveness.

In this study, a relatively high dosage of 2.5 grams per kilogram of body weight was used, equivalent to approximately 5 tablespoons of honey per day for a 100-pound person. While this dosage is more practical than the previous study, it is still a considerable amount of honey to consume regularly.

Study 3:

A clinical trial was conducted on human volunteers to assess the safety of UMF 20+ manuka honey. Although the primary objective was to demonstrate the safety of high-quality manuka honey consumption, the researchers also monitored the levels of both good and bad bacteria in the lower digestive system of the volunteers. They found that a dosage of approximately 1 tablespoon of manuka honey per day for 4 weeks did not significantly affect the levels of the monitored bacteria.

It is important to note that this study used a lower dosage and was conducted on healthy volunteers. The results may have been different with higher dosages or if the volunteers had a bacterial imbalance.

Study 4:

In contrast, a study aimed to measure the antibacterial strength of manuka honey at various stages of digestion by simulating the digestive environment in a lab setting. The researchers found that the level of methylglyoxal, the primary component responsible for manuka honey’s antibacterial activity, decreased as the honey moved through the digestive process. However, even digested manuka honey still demonstrated effectiveness in killing Staphylococcus aureus, although slightly less potent than undigested honey.

Conclusion

In conclusion, more research is needed to definitively determine the effectiveness of manuka honey in treating various digestive issues. Although promising results have been observed in several studies, it is currently unclear how effective manuka honey is for treating digestive disorders.

Individuals should consult with their doctors to decide whether manuka honey is worth exploring as a treatment option for their specific digestive issues. While manuka honey has demonstrated antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and prebiotic properties, its potential benefits for gut health require further investigation.