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If you suffer from acid reflux, you may have heard about the potential benefits of manuka honey in alleviating symptoms. However, it’s important to understand that while manuka honey can be beneficial for some individuals with acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), it is not a guaranteed solution for everyone.
The Unique Properties of Manuka Honey
Manuka honey is a special type of honey that originates from New Zealand. It is produced by bees that pollinate the flowers of the Manuka tree, which is exclusive to New Zealand. Due to its limited availability, manuka honey is typically more expensive than regular honey.
One of the main benefits of manuka honey is its antibacterial properties, which sets it apart from regular honey. This makes it effective in treating a variety of issues.
Manuka Honey and Acid Reflux
Manuka honey has been used for its medicinal benefits for centuries, but can it help with acid reflux? Research suggests that manuka honey can aid in the healing process of wounds and damaged tissue in the digestive tract. This can be particularly helpful in easing and soothing irritation caused by acid reflux in the throat, esophagus, and gut.
Several studies have also indicated that manuka honey may help prevent gastric ulcers caused by the bacteria H. pylori. The antibacterial properties of manuka honey inhibit the growth of this bacteria, making it beneficial in treating gastric ulcers.
Furthermore, manuka honey has been shown to be effective in treating and managing other digestive issues such as inflammatory bowel disease and ulcerative colitis. These conditions often manifest with symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, and nausea, which can be alleviated by the regular consumption of manuka honey.
Different Kinds of Manuka Honey
When purchasing manuka honey, you may notice that it comes in various price ranges. This is often due to the difference in MGO (methylglyoxal) content. MGO is responsible for the antibacterial and antimicrobial benefits of manuka honey. The higher the MGO content, the more potent its effects. Different ratings, such as MGO or UMF, are used to track these levels. Higher ratings indicate a higher MGO content, but they also come with a higher price tag.
For acid reflux, a moderate level of MGO is usually sufficient. A honey with 100 MGO (6 UMF) can provide some relief, while an option with 200+ MGO (8+ UMF) would be ideal for more significant benefits without breaking the bank.
Manuka Honey’s Acidity and Acid Reflux
While manuka honey is generally helpful in treating acid reflux, it may not be suitable for everyone. Individuals with laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) may find that manuka honey triggers their throat problems due to its acidity. The acidity of manuka honey, which has a pH of around 4-5, may be too high for individuals with severe acid reflux like LPR or GERD. Therefore, it is recommended to start with moderate amounts and observe its effects. If there are no negative side effects, it can be consumed for an extended period.
Conclusion
Manuka honey has the potential to offer digestive benefits and alleviate symptoms of acid reflux. While it may not work for everyone, it is worth trying in moderation to see if it has any positive effects. It is crucial to consider that the acidity of manuka honey may be too high for some individuals, causing irritation. However, this is uncommon.
Important Related Questions
How Do You Use Manuka Honey for Acid Reflux?
Taking one teaspoon of manuka honey before meals can help coat and line the esophagus and stomach, providing relief. It can also be used as a sweetener in certain dishes if preferred.
How Much Manuka Honey Should I Take for Acid Reflux?
Start with one teaspoon per day and monitor any negative effects. If no adverse reactions occur, the dosage can be increased to two or three teaspoons per day.
Does Honey Neutralize Acid Reflux?
No, honey does not neutralize acid reflux. However, it may provide some relief in certain cases.
When is the Best Time to Take Manuka Honey?
Taking manuka honey before meals is typically the most beneficial. This allows it to coat and line the esophagus and entire digestive tract, aiding digestion and reducing acid reflux symptoms.
