Why Mānuka Honey Is Great for Your Gut 3 Key Properties

When you're feeling under the weather, a warm mug of tea with honey might be your go-to comfort. But not all honey is created equal especially when it comes to gut health. Mānuka honey, a unique variety from New Zealand, offers powerful benefits for your digestive system thanks to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiseptic properties.

"Mānuka honey contains oligosaccharides, which are a carbohydrate that act as a prebiotic, feeding the healthy bacteria in our gut," says Amy Shapiro, RD, founder of Real Nutrition NYC. These beneficial bacteria can support digestion, mood, weight management, and overall health.

Read on to discover how Mānuka honey can support your gut health and how to choose the best quality honey for maximum benefits.

1. It's Anti-Inflammatory

One of the standout features of Mānuka honey is its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help support a healthy gut. Because it acts as a prebiotic, Mānuka honey promotes a balanced gut microbiome, which is associated with reduced inflammation throughout the body.

A February 2017 study in Gut Microbes found that a healthy gut microbiome can lead to lower levels of inflammation. While most research on Mānuka honey's anti-inflammatory effects is still in early stages, an November 2008 animal study in Phytotherapy Research showed promising results. In this study, Mānuka honey reduced inflammation related to inflammatory bowel disease in rats, suggesting potential benefits for human gut health, though more research is needed.

2. It Contains Antioxidants

Mānuka honey is rich in antioxidants, which protect your body from cell damage caused by oxidative stress and free radicals. Antioxidants are particularly beneficial for gut health because they can support the integrity of the gut lining and help maintain a balanced microbiome.

A September 2021 study in Antioxidants highlighted how food-derived antioxidants might protect against intestinal oxidative stress by promoting healthy gut bacteria.

Additionally, a September 2012 study in Molecules analyzed four varieties of honey and found that Mānuka honey had the highest phenolic content, which correlates with stronger antioxidant activity. While honey alone may not be a primary source of antioxidants, incorporating it into a balanced diet can contribute to your overall antioxidant intake.

How to Add Mānuka Honey to Your Diet:

• Stir a spoonful into tea or coffee as a natural sweetener.

• Mix it into smoothies for a touch of sweetness and added gut support.

• Enjoy it straight off the spoon for a quick, beneficial boost.

3. It Has Antiseptic Properties

One of the biggest differences between regular honey and Mānuka honey is its antiseptic and antimicrobial qualities. These properties allow Mānuka honey to kill or slow the growth of harmful microorganisms, which can aid in gut health and digestive healing.

"Mānuka honey has antibacterial, antimicrobial, and antiviral properties, which can help with healing the gut lining and preventing pathogens from causing illness," Shapiro explains.

A May 2013 study in BMC Research suggested that Mānuka honey could potentially be an effective treatment for C. difficile, a bacteria that causes infections in the large intestine. While this study was conducted in a lab setting, it opens the door to future research on Mānuka honey as a natural treatment option.

Similarly, a February 2014 study in the World Journal of Gastroenterology found that Mānuka honey might help inhibit the growth of H. pylori, a bacteria that can cause stomach ulcers and inflammation. However, further research is needed before it can be recommended as a standalone or complementary treatment.

For Maximum Benefits, Make Sure It's UMF-Certified

Not all Mānuka honey offers the same benefits. Shapiro emphasizes that authentic Mānuka honey should come exclusively from New Zealand and carry a UMF (Unique Mānuka Factor) certification.

The UMF certification ensures that the honey has been lab tested for its unique chemical markers, including:

• Methylglyoxal (MGO): Indicates the honey’s potency (rated from 5+ to 20+).

• Leptosperin: Confirms the honey's authenticity.

• Dihydroxyacetone (DHA): Measures the shelf life.

• Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF): Shows the honey’s freshness.

To ensure you're getting genuine, high-quality Mānuka honey, choose UMF-certified brands like Comvita, which has produced well-researched, sustainably sourced Mānuka honey for nearly 50 years.

The Bottom Line

Mānuka honey's anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiseptic properties make it a powerful ally for gut health support. Incorporating this special honey into your diet can promote digestive well-being, support a healthy microbiome, and potentially aid in gut healing.

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