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Manuka honey is a unique and beneficial honey made from the nectar of Manuka tree flowers. It contains powerful compounds such as MGO, prebiotics, and antioxidants, which offer various health benefits. This article will guide you on how much Manuka honey you should consume daily for optimal wellness.
What Is Manuka Honey?
Manuka honey is a special type of honey produced in New Zealand by Western honeybees that pollinate the Manuka tree flowers. This honey is known for its rare nutrients and wellness properties, making it a healthy and delicious choice. Manuka honey is often referred to as “Honey With Superpowers™” due to its unique properties.
Unique Health Benefits of Manuka Honey
Manuka honey stands out from other types of honey due to its exceptional health benefits. The main active compound in Manuka honey is Methylglyoxal (MGO), which has natural antibacterial properties. The higher the MGO content in the honey, the more potent its wellness benefits. Manuka honey also contains oligosaccharides, a type of prebiotic that promotes healthy digestion. Additionally, it is rich in antioxidants and enzymes that support overall health and well-being.
Uses of Manuka Honey
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Supports Gut and Digestive Health: The oligosaccharides present in Manuka honey support a healthy gut microbiome. The activity of MGO helps balance the microbiome, promoting good digestion. For digestive system health, it is recommended to consume at least one heaping teaspoon of Manuka honey daily, preferably with an MGO rating of 850+.
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Empowers the Immune System: Manuka honey contains bioactive compounds and nutrients that can boost the natural immune response. Consuming a small amount of Manuka honey daily or using it with warm water can help support your immune system. For daily immune support, choose a honey with an MGO rating of at least 600+.
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Promotes Feelings of Energy and Supports Overall Health: Manuka honey’s antioxidants and other beneficial nutrients contribute to overall health and well-being. It also has a lower glycemic index, making it a healthier choice for maintaining energy levels. For foundational-level support, an MGO 200+ Manuka honey is recommended.
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A Healthy Indulgence: Manuka honey is a rare delicacy with a unique flavor profile. It is darker, creamier, and more decadent than regular honey. Enjoying Manuka honey as a healthy indulgence allows you to experience its various beneficial nutrients.
How Much Manuka Honey Should You Eat Daily?
For daily consumption, a typical serving of Manuka honey ranges from one to three heaping teaspoons per day. Each tablespoon of Manuka honey contains approximately 60 calories, 17g of total carbohydrates, and 17g of total sugars. Consuming one teaspoon of Manuka honey would provide around 20 calories, 5.6g of carbs, and 5.6g of sugar. It is important to consider your overall sugar intake from other sources when deciding how much Manuka honey to consume.
The MGO content of Manuka honey affects its potency and wellness benefits. While a higher MGO level indicates a more potent honey, it is still recommended to consume a heaping teaspoon daily regardless of the MGO level. If you are unsure which MGO level is suitable for you, you can start with MGO 200+ for daily wellness and vitality, MGO 600+ for daily immune support, MGO 850+ for daily digestive support, and MGO 1,000+ for advanced support.
It is important to note that while there is no specific limit to how much Manuka honey you can consume, it is best to use it in moderation due to its sugar content. A heaping teaspoon of Manuka honey can easily fit into a balanced and healthy lifestyle. If you feel the need to consume a higher amount of Manuka honey, it is advisable to consult your doctor before doing so.
Best Ways To Enjoy Manuka Honey
There are numerous delicious ways to incorporate Manuka honey into your daily routine. You can drizzle it on yogurt, pancakes, oatmeal, or peanut butter toast. It can also be used to sweeten your favorite tea or coffee. For a unique twist, mix it with chili oil and drizzle it on pizza. Alternatively, you can simply enjoy Manuka honey by the spoonful. Some people even like to mix it into their morning glass of water for an energizing start to the day.
Where Can You Find Authentic Manuka Honey?
Authentic Manuka honey is unique to New Zealand and is made from flowers that bloom for only a few weeks each year, making it a rare find. To ensure you are purchasing genuine Manuka honey and avoiding imitations, look for products that have been properly graded for their MGO level and tested to meet the authenticity standards of New Zealand’s Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI).
Manukora is a reputable brand that independently tests all of their Manuka honey using 15 different tests to guarantee authenticity. Their Manuka honey products are certified for MPI markers for authenticity, MGO grade, non-GMO status, herbicide-free production, and being made only with Manuka flowers.
Is Manuka Honey Safe for Everyone?
Manuka honey is generally safe for most people to consume. However, there are a few exceptions. Babies under one year of age should not consume any type of honey, including Manuka honey. Pregnant women should also avoid consuming honey. Individuals with honey allergies or blood sugar issues should exercise caution when consuming raw honey, including Manuka honey.
In conclusion, Manuka honey is a special type of honey with unique health benefits. Consuming one to three heaping teaspoons of Manuka honey per day can provide various wellness benefits. It can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, such as drizzling it on food or beverages, or simply eating it by the spoonful. When purchasing Manuka honey, ensure its authenticity by looking for proper grading and testing certifications. While Manuka honey is generally safe for consumption, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or specific health conditions.