Manuka honey is a unique variety of honey native to Australia and New Zealand, well known for its diverse health benefits. Manuka honey has some incredible properties including its anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, and its role in immunity, wound healing, digestive health, skin, oral care, and more… 

For those with diabetes, Manuka honey can help in managing blood sugar levels, discover why this superfood might be a sweet addition! 

 

What Is Manuka Honey? 

Manuka honey is a natural sweetener rich in polyphenol antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, but also strong antibacterial properties, making it a popular choice among healthcare professionals. With its potential effects on blood sugar levels, it has received much attention in research related to diabetes management and wound healing in patients. 

 

What Are The Health Benefits Of Manuka Honey? 

Manuka honey offers many health benefits, making it an effective natural remedy for dietary and medical contexts. Its antibacterial properties have been extensively studied, providing evidence of its efficacy in promoting wound healing and enhancing overall digestive health.  

Research indicates that Manuka honey may be beneficial in managing diabetes by regulating blood sugar levels, due to its unique composition of nutrients, antioxidants, and lower glycemic index, making it a safer sweetener for those managing diabetes. 

 

How Is Manuka Honey Different From Regular Honey? 

Sourced from the nectar of the native Australian and New Zealand Manuka tree flowers, this premium honey has distinct antibacterial properties and a higher concentration of beneficial nutrients, giving it a unique flavour, health benefits, and glycemic index. 

 

What Are The Potential Risks Of Manuka Honey? 

It is essential to know the potential risks for people with diabetes or those with bee / bee product allergies.  

 

Allergic Reactions 

Some people may experience allergic reactions to Manuka honey, which can vary in severity. Consulting a medical professional can help in determining whether a trial of Manuka honey is safe for you. 

 

High Sugar Content 

The sugar content in Manuka honey needs to be managed, for people with diabetes. However, it has a lower GI index than table sugar, making it a safer alternative sweetener. 

 

Here are what some experts recommendation: 

• Limit Manuka honey to 1-2 spoons per day. 

• Introduce slowly and closely monitor how your body responds, adjusting accordingly 

• Consume it with fibre-rich, protein and high healthy fat foods to help stabilise blood sugar levels. 

• Consult your doctor if you have any concerns or symptoms 

 

How Can Manuka Honey Help With Diabetes? 

Manuka honey may give potential benefits for those with diabetes through its unique properties that helps improve insulin sensitivity and regulate blood sugar levels. Research suggests that this natural sweetener has anti-inflammatory effects that may also be beneficial in diabetes management. 

 

Anti-inflammatory Effects 

Chronic inflammation is often linked to insulin resistance and other metabolic disorders. Research indicates that Manuka honey’s unique compounds can help reduce inflammation in the body, potentially assisting in the treatment of diabetes. 

Understanding the connection between inflammation and diabetes is important for effective management strategies.  

Chronic inflammation can suppress the body's ability to use insulin, this leads to higher blood sugar levels and increased complications. Several studies have shown that Manuka honey contains natural antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, which may help moderate this inflammation. 

Including Manuka honey into your diet is as simple as taking it by the spoon, or adding a teaspoon to smoothies, herbal teas (don’t heat above 50C), or drizzling it over oatmeal, or as a spread on whole-grain toast, or other healthy recipes. 

 

Improves Insulin Sensitivity 

Manuka honey’s unique composition may help enhance insulin response and regulate glucose levels in the bloodstream. 

Research shows that Manuka honey contains specific compounds that might improve cellular uptake of glucose, which reduces insulin resistance. Scientific research studies have highlighted its ability to regulate inflammation, a common issue in diabetic patients which can increase insulin resistance. The antioxidant properties of Manuka honey, and high levels of polyphenols could play an important role in protecting pancreatic function and promoting healthier metabolic pathways. 

Integrating Manuka honey into a comprehensive diabetes management plan may help in improving insulin sensitivity and also offers a natural alternative to processed sugars. Experts suggest considering it as a supplement to a balanced diet and regular exercise.  

Below are the main mechanisms through which Manuka honey might enhance metabolic health: 

• Composition of bioactive compounds 

• Anti-inflammatory effects 

• Antioxidant capacity 

• Potential enhancement of gut health 

The potential role of Manuka honey in managing diabetes involves improving overall insulin sensitivity and metabolic health. 

 

Lowers Blood Sugar Levels 

Research shows that Manuka honey may help lower blood sugar levels, making it an important addition to a diabetes-friendly diet, (when consumed in moderation). Its lower glycemic index compared to regular sugar allows for a more balanced effect on blood glucose levels. 

A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food showed that participants who consumed Manuka honey showed improvements in their glycemic control, effectively managing their blood sugar levels better than those consuming regular honey or sugar. 

In clinical trials, the glycemic index of Manuka honey was found to be around 54-59, which is lower compared to regular table sugar with a glycemic index of 65 or higher. 

 

How Much Manuka Honey Should Be Consumed For Diabetes? 

For people managing diabetes, it is essential to determine the appropriate amount of Manuka honey to consume daily, as moderation is important to mitigating its high sugar content while still receiving its health benefits.  

Consulting a dietitian, or medical professional can provide personalised recommendations based on your health needs and goals. 

 Experts recommend starting with small amounts, perhaps 1 teaspoon each day, and monitor blood sugar levels afterward. 

Combining it with protein or healthy fats can also help slow spikes in blood sugar. 

By using these guidelines, people can get the benefits of this superfood whilst managing healthy glucose levels. 

 

Balancing Blood Sugar 

Consuming a quality apple cider, kombucha or jun vinegar can improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for individuals with diabetes or those at risk. When paired with low glycemic index Manuka honey, this combination helps maintain balanced blood sugar levels. 

 

What Are Some Delicious Ways To Incorporate Manuka Honey Into A Diabetic Diet? 

In Tea or Coffee (Don’t heat above 50C) 

On Toast or Oatmeal 

In Smoothies 

In Salad Dressings 

In Desserts 

As a Natural Alternative Sweetener  

For more delicious ideas, please see our Recipes. 

 

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. What is Manuka honey and how does it benefit diabetes?

Manuka honey is a type of honey that is produced in Australia and New Zealand by bees that pollinate the Manuka flowers. It has been found to have high levels of a compound called methylglyoxal, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. These properties can help improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control in people with diabetes. 

 

2. Can Manuka honey replace regular honey in a diabetic diet?

While Manuka honey does have potential benefits for people with diabetes, It still contains natural sugars and should be consumed in moderation as part of a well-balanced diabetic diet. 

 

3. Is Manuka honey safe for people with diabetes to consume?

Yes, Manuka honey is generally safe for people with diabetes to consume. However, it is important to closely monitor your reactions and consult with your doctor if there are any adverse reactions 

 

4. How can Manuka honey be incorporated into a diabetic meal plan?

Manuka honey can be used as a natural sweetener in place of sugar in recipes. It can also be added to beverages, drizzled on top of yoghurt or oatmeal, or used as a topping for fruit. Just be sure to monitor your portions and adjust your insulin or medication dosage accordingly. 

 

5. Are there any potential side effects of consuming Manuka honey for people with diabetes?

While Manuka honey is generally safe for consumption, some people may experience allergic reactions or digestive discomfort. It is always best to start with small amounts and monitor your body's response before incorporating it into your diet on a regular basis. 

 

6. Is there any evidence to support the use of Manuka honey for diabetes?

While more research is needed, some studies have shown that Manuka honey may help improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes. However, it should not be used as a primary treatment for diabetes and should be used in conjunction with a healthy lifestyle and medical treatment plan. 

 

Scientific References 

Pancreatic regenerative potential of Manuka Honey evidenced through pancreatic histology and levels of transcription factors in diabetic rat model 

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10559747/ 

 

The Glycemic Index of Manuka honey 

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2212826312000607