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Manuka honey has gained popularity in recent years due to its touted health benefits. Celebrities like Kourtney Kardashian and Gwyneth Paltrow swear by it, and even Ed Sheeran includes it in his tour rider. But is manuka honey worth the high price tag? And what sets it apart from regular honey? In this article, we will explore the potential benefits of manuka honey and provide recommendations on where to find the best options.
What is Manuka Honey?
Manuka honey is produced by bees that pollinate the flowers of the manuka bush, which is native to New Zealand. It differs from regular honey in terms of its color, thickness, and cost. Manuka honey is darker and thicker, and it tends to be more expensive due to its rarity and the higher production costs associated with it.
One of the key factors that sets manuka honey apart is its active ingredients, which are believed to offer several health benefits.
Health Benefits of Manuka Honey
Manuka honey is associated with various potential health benefits. Here are some of the most notable ones:
Wound Healing
Manuka honey is known for its medicinal properties in wound healing and tissue regeneration. This is attributed to a substance called methylglyoxal, which gives the honey its antibacterial effect. Nutritionist Mays Al-Ali explains that the presence of methylglyoxal in manuka honey contributes to its ability to promote wound healing.
Soothing Sore Throats
Honey, including manuka honey, is recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) and Public Health England as an option for treating short-term colds in individuals over the age of 12. This is due to its antimicrobial properties. Al-Ali suggests adding manuka honey to hot drinks to help soothe the respiratory tract during a cough or sore throat.
Supporting Gut Health
Studies have shown that manuka honey can have beneficial effects on gut health. It contains prebiotics called fructo-oligosaccharides, which help stimulate the growth of good bacteria in the gut. This can contribute to a healthy gut microbiome.
It is important to note that manuka honey can come in different strengths, indicated by the MGO (methylglyoxal) number on the jar. The higher the MGO number, the more potent the honey.
How to Incorporate Manuka Honey into Your Diet
If you want to include manuka honey in your diet, nutritionist Mays Al-Ali recommends adding it to high-fiber foods such as berries, oats, bananas, and chickpeas. However, it is crucial to consume manuka honey in moderation as it is high in sugar. Aim for no more than around 15g (or two tablespoons) per day.
Al-Ali suggests trying manuka honey in combination with other nutritious foods. For example, you can add it to oats along with some pea protein powder or incorporate it into smoothies with fiber-rich vegetables and avocado.
To combat winter colds and viruses, Al-Ali recommends adding manuka honey to a warm tea made with ginger, turmeric, lemon, apple cider vinegar, and a dash of cayenne pepper.
Finding the Best Manuka Honey: WH Lab’s Top Picks
The WH Lab experts have diligently researched and tested various manuka honeys on the market. Whether you are new to manuka honey or looking for a new brand to try, we have narrowed down the top four options for you. Here are the detailed reviews of our top-rated manuka honeys:
1. [Brand Name 1]
- Key Features:
- High MGO rating for potent health benefits
- Distinct floral notes in flavor and aroma
- Sourced from reputable New Zealand beekeepers
- Price: $XX.XX
2. [Brand Name 2]
- Key Features:
- Organic and sustainably produced
- Rich and complex flavor profile
- Ethical sourcing practices
- Price: $XX.XX
3. [Brand Name 3]
- Key Features:
- Affordable option without compromising quality
- Smooth texture and pleasant taste
- Independently tested for purity and authenticity
- Price: $XX.XX
4. [Brand Name 4]
- Key Features:
- Premium quality with high MGO rating
- Unfiltered for maximum nutritional benefits
- Traceability from hive to shelf
- Price: $XX.XX
These top-rated manuka honeys offer a range of options to suit different preferences and budgets. Be sure to choose one that aligns with your specific needs and tastes.
Conclusion
Manuka honey is a unique and potentially beneficial addition to your diet, particularly during the winter months. With its active ingredients and associated health benefits, it has gained popularity among celebrities and health enthusiasts alike. Remember to consume manuka honey in moderation due to its high sugar content, and consider incorporating it into high-fiber foods or warm beverages for maximum enjoyment and potential health benefits.
