Whenever we experience digestive discomfort, many of us are quick to secure over-the-counter medications. However, you can opt for a sweet and natural alternative that has been used for centuries to soothe various digestive issues – honey. Not just any honey, but the delicious and nutritious Manuka honey from Singapore.
Honey has long been celebrated for its healing properties, and its ability to calm acid reflux and other digestive discomforts is just one of the many reasons it is popular as a natural remedy. Explore how honey can help with acid reflux and other digestive issues and harness its healing power for yourself.
So sit back, grab a spoonful of honey, and let us dive into the world of honey and digestive health.
The science behind honey’s healing properties
Its healing power is no myth – it is backed by science. The key lies in the unique combination of antioxidants, enzymes, and bioactive compounds. Honey contains polyphenols, powerful antioxidants that help reduce inflammation in the body. Inflammation is a common underlying factor in many digestive concerns, like acid reflux. It also contains enzymes, which break down food and improve digestion, and antibacterial properties that can combat harmful bacteria in your gut.
The benefits of honey for acid reflux and digestive discomfort
Honey has also been studied to stimulate mucus production in the stomach lining, helping protect the stomach from damage caused by stomach acid. It is beneficial for those with acid reflux. Acid reflux causes the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES) to weaken, allowing stomach acid to flow back into the oesophagus and causing discomfort and irritation. Honey helps create a protective barrier in the stomach, thereby reducing the severity and frequency of acid reflux symptoms.
In addition, the type of honey used can make a big difference. Manuka honey from Singapore is highly valued for its potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Here are the key benefits of using Manuka honey for digestive health:
- Manuka honey contains high levels of methylglyoxal (MGO), a compound found to have potent anti-inflammatory effects. It helps reduce inflammation in the gut and alleviate digestive symptoms.
- Manuka honey has been proven to have powerful antibacterial properties. The imbalance of good and bad bacteria in the gut contributes to a range of digestive problems. So worry less about the harmful bacteria in the gut because Manuka honey got your bacterial balance in check.
- Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties help soothe the digestive system. Symptoms such as heartburn and indigestion get taken care of by Manuka honey.
- Manuka honey supports general gut health. Not only does it help improve digestion, but it also boosts the immune system and reduces the risk of other digestive issues in the future.
How to use honey for acid reflux and digestive discomfort
Manuka honey can be used in several ways to help alleviate digestive symptoms causing discomfort.
- A simple way to use Manuka honey is to take it with a spoonful. Start with a small amount (like half a teaspoon), then gradually increase to a tablespoon.
- Another way is to mix it into warm water or tea. Add a teaspoon or two of Manuka honey to a cup of warm water or tea and stir until dissolved.
- Manuka honey can also be used as a spread on toast or crackers. Spread a thin layer of the honey on whole-grain toast or crackers for a healthy and satisfying snack.
- If you are fond of recipes such as smoothies, oatmeal, and baked goods, you can incorporate Manuka honey. Try adding a teaspoon or two to your favourite smoothie or oatmeal recipe, or use it as a sweetener in baked goods.
Other natural remedies that can be used with honey
Other natural remedies can be used complementarily with Manuka honey for your digestive health.
- Ginger – add fresh ginger to hot water or tea, as honey is still a sweetener that can cause spikes in blood sugar. Use Manuka honey sparingly.
- Aloe vera – drink aloe vera juice, as research suggests decolourised and purified aloe vera juice may be a safe and effective treatment for reducing reflux symptoms.
- Chamomile – drink chamomile tea, as chamomile’s anti-inflammatory properties can reduce digestive symptoms such as an upset stomach. It can also reduce stress, a key trigger for acid reflux and GERD symptoms.
- Apple cider vinegar – try apple cider vinegar for mild reflux by mixing a teaspoon of the vinegar into a glass of water. It is not advisable if you have moderate to severe acid reflux, heartburn, or GERD.
Can it be just any Manuka honey?
Look for Manuka honey in Singapore that is certified organic and independently audited from forest to table, like the Organic New Zealand Manuka XO Honey Bioactive 30+. It is a rare and super potent honey with a total antibacterial activity (TA) of 30+, balancing out good and harmful bacteria in your gut.
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