Manuka honey for IBS: A natural remedy to support gut health

Manuka honey for IBS is increasingly explored as a natural dietary option for people seeking to support gut health alongside conventional management strategies. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a chronic gastrointestinal condition that affects the lower digestive tract, including the small intestine, large intestine and colon. While there is currently no cure, dietary approaches that help maintain gut balance are widely recognised as an important part of symptom management.

Manuka honey is produced from the nectar of native Leptospermum plants found only in Australia and New Zealand. It has been widely studied for its unique bioactive properties.

High-strength Manuka honey, measured by its methylglyoxal (MGO)content, may help support gut health by promoting microbial balance and reducing digestive discomfort associated with IBS [1].

This article explores how Manuka honey for IBS may support gut health when used thoughtfully as part of a balanced diet.

Understanding IBS and its common triggers

IBS is considered a functional gastrointestinal disorder, meaning symptoms occur without visible structural damage. It can be triggered by a combination of factors, including:

Common symptoms include bloating, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhoea, or alternating bowel habits. Conventional management often involves dietary modification, stress management and, in some cases, medication to help relieve symptoms.

How high-MGO Manuka honey supports gut health

Honey has been used to promote digestive health for centuries. Historical records show Roman physicians prescribing honey for diarrhoea and constipation, and its use has been documented across Europe and Arab countries for hundreds of years.

However, not all honey offers the same restorative properties. Manuka honey is distinct due to its naturally occurring methylglyoxal (MGO), a compound associated with its potency, quality and value.

Why MGO strength matters

MGO is a recognised measure of Manuka honey concentration and strength. The higher the MGO number, the more potent the honey, which also influences its value and cost.

Within the Biosota range, superior-strength Manuka honey (MGO 1200+ to2200+) is most commonly selected to support gut health due to its higher concentration of bioactive compounds.

Key ways Manuka honey may support gut health

When selected at higher MGO strengths, Manuka honey offers a combination of properties that may be beneficial for people managing IBS:

The role of Manuka honey in post-infectious IBS

Research indicates that the risk of developing IBS increases significantly following a gastrointestinal infection [2]. Post-infectious IBS is thought to occur due to persistent changes in gut bacteria and low-grade intestinal inflammation.

Published research suggests that honey’s antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and prebiotic characteristics may help reduce infection-causing gut bacteria such as Salmonella, Escherichia coli(E. coli) and Clostridioides difficile, while also supporting the growth of beneficial bacteria [1].

By helping to build and maintain a healthier gut environment,Manuka honey for IBS may play a supportive role in reducing the risk of post-infectious symptom flare-ups.

Prebiotic properties and gut balance

The naturally occurring oligosaccharides in Manuka honey function as prebiotics. Prebiotics feed beneficial gut bacteria, helping them thrive and contribute to a more balanced gut microbiome [1].

This dual action – supporting beneficial bacteria while discouraging harmful bacteria – is particularly relevant for IBS, where microbial imbalance is commonly observed [2].

Supporting inflammation in the gut

Studies indicate that IBS may be associated with low-grade intestinal inflammation [3]. Manuka honey contains naturally occurring antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds that may help soothe the digestive lining.

How to use Manuka honey as part of an IBS-friendly diet

When introducing Manuka honey for digestive support, a gentle and consistent approach is recommended.

As with any dietary change, it is important to consult your healthcare professional, as people with IBS can have varying sensitivities to honey.

Creating a healthier gut environment

While there is no cure for IBS, supporting gut health remains a key part of symptom management. Medicinal-grade Manuka honey offers a natural option that may help maintain microbial balance and digestive comfort over time as well as reduce symptom flare-ups.[1].

Key takeaways for using Manuka honey for IBS

Manuka honey offers a unique combination of prebiotic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help support gut health. When chosen at a superior MGO strength and incorporated carefully, taking Manuka honey for IBS symptoms can be a valuable addition to a broader gut health strategy. As individual tolerance can vary, always consult your healthcare professional before introducing Manuka honey or making changes to your diet.

Explore Biosota’s high-MGO Manuka honey range today.

FAQs

Is Manuka honey suitable for everyone with IBS?

Tolerance varies between individuals. Some people may find Manuka honey supportive for digestive comfort, while others may need to avoid honey during active flare-ups, particularly if following a low-FODMAP diet.

How long does it take to notice digestive changes when using Manuka honey for IBS?

Individual responses vary. Some people may notice changes in digestive comfort within a few weeks of consistent use, while others may require longer depending on overall diet, gut health and individual sensitivity.

Does the quality of Manuka honey matter when using it for IBS?

Yes. Authentic Manuka honey with verified MGO levelsindicatesquality,purityand concentration. Higher MGO grades are more concentrated and are commonly selected to support gut health.

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