If you have experienced acid reflux, you can’t deny that it is an unpleasant feeling when stomach acid flows back up your oesophagus after eating. Many people experience acid reflux from time to time, but when it happens regularly, it can cause GERD or Gastroesophageal reflux disease.
Although there are medications available, lifestyle and diet changes are some of the best ways to manage acid reflux or GERD. Some people are also turning to (Manuka) honey for a natural alternative to remedy the symptoms of reflux.
Is honey good for acid reflux?
Recent studies have shown that there is a connection between oxygen-free radicals and the occurrence of acid reflux. The free radicals may be responsible for acid reflux, as these free radicals damage the cell lining in the digestive tract.
Honey has strong antioxidant activity, particularly Manuka Honey, and is a powerful free radical scavenger. It produces an antioxidant called glutathione, which fights free radicals, thus reducing or preventing cell damage in the digestive tract. Honey can also stimulate the regrowth of tissues on the sphincter and reduces the chances of acid reflux.
According to an article published in the Indian Journal of Medical Research, honey’s high-density and high-viscosity texture enables it to coat and stick to the surface of the mucous membrane in the oesophagus. This contributes to relief from acid reflux and its painful effects, like heartburn.
As Manuka honey has strong anti-inflammatory properties, it may also work to reduce inflammation in the oesophagus.
Why honey may not work for acid reflux
While there is some evidence that suggests honey can soothe the symptoms of acid reflux, there are some professionals who do not advocate honey for acid reflux and GERD.
According to Hannah Kittrell, RD, CDN, Physiolab manager and clinical research associate at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City in this Livestrong article, “Honey is a simple sugar, meaning it is easy for our body to digest. Sugars such as this cause a rapid increase in blood sugar, which produces an osmotic effect, pulling water into the gastrointestinal tract. Excess water being pulled into the GI tract quickly could actually trigger acid reflux symptoms.”
How to use honey for acid reflux
Since not all honey is the same, it is advisable to use high-quality honey that has strong medicinal properties, such as Manuka honey.
According to a review published in the British Medical Journal, it was found that taking 5ml (1 teaspoon) of honey resulted in relief from heartburn.
If you don’t enjoy consuming honey by itself, mix it in warm tea or water, or have it with some yogurt.
It’s also important to remember that honey can affect your blood sugar levels. This is important if you have diabetes, low blood sugar, or take medications that affect your blood sugar levels. Consult with your doctor before using honey for acid reflux.
Honey can also trigger an allergy. If you experience any side effects, then stop taking honey.
Manuka honey for acid reflux
If you are looking for good quality Manuka honey for acid reflux, you can try Nature’s Gold Premium Australian Manuka honey. Our Premium range has some of the highest purity you will find.
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