Honey is a natural sweetener composed mainly of fructose and glucose, with water as the second major component. It also contains minor compounds such as phenolic and volatile compounds, vitamins, minerals, enzymes, organic acids, and hydrogen peroxide, which contribute to a wide range of health benefits. These compounds play a crucial role in the biological properties of honey, including its positive effects on gastrointestinal health, such as relieving acid reflux.
The Mechanism of Honey in Relieving Acid Reflux/Heartburn
Honey possesses unique properties that make it an effective remedy for acid reflux and heartburn.
- Honey has high density, viscosity, and low surface tension, which allow it to form a protective coating on the mucous membrane of the esophagus, providing prolonged relief.
- Honey contains phenolic compounds and flavonoids, which exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidation properties, which could scavenge harmful free radicals that can damage the cells lining the digestive tract and stimulate local wound responses. By removing these free radicals, honey helps prevent damage and reduces inflammation in the esophagus.
- Honey’s antimicrobial activity is attributed to its osmotic effect. This unique characteristic promotes rapid healing in patients suffering from oral mucositis and aids in the treatment of otorhinolaryngeal infections.
By harnessing these beneficial properties, honey can provide longer-lasting relief from acid reflux and heartburn. It can be used in conjunction with traditional treatments to enhance their effectiveness.
How to consume honey for heartburn relief?
Tualang Honey possesses a thick and viscous texture that can create a protective layer on the mucous membrane of the esophagus, effectively preventing gastroesophageal reflux.
A review conducted by Math M.V. et al. in 2013 suggests that consuming 5ml of honey may provide relief from heartburn.
Besides, as stated in an article on hopkinsmedicine.org, a cup of warm honey lemon could be one of the home remedies that could relieve heartburn and reflux. Lemon juice is generally considered very acidic, but a small amount of lemon juice mixed with warm water and honey has an alkalizing effect that neutralizes stomach acid, which is due to honey having natural antioxidants that protect the health of cells.
In addition, a warm honey ginger might be helpful too as ginger is well-known for anti-inflammatory effect and also used as a natural remedy for indigestion, nausea, and other gastrointestinal issues.
Gold-G® Health Food Series
Gold-G® Gold Tualang Honey
Gold-G® Gold Tualang Honey is a raw and natural honey produced by the Asian Rock Bee, Apis dorsata. It is 100% pure and undergoes minimal processing, with only straining to remove larger particles such as bees, leaves, and honeycomb flakes. It is then directly bottled in a GMP certified factory, allowing it to retain its natural friendly bacteria, propolis, pollen grains, phytonutrients, phenolic acids, and flavonoids. In addition to its natural taste and aroma, it offers higher nutritional value and stronger therapeutic effects compared to processed honey!
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Reminder, Honey still consists of sugars, and excessive intake of sugars may harm the body’s health, therefore, it is suggested to consume honey in moderation, not more than 2 tablespoons per day.
However, there are limited published studies and human response data in this research area. Therefore, it is best to use honey for therapeutic purposes under a doctor’s or professional advice.
References
- Math M.V. (2002) Oesophagus: Heartburn and Honey. BMJ 2001;323:736. Available from: https://www.bmj.com/rapid-response/2011/10/28/oesophagus-heartburn-and-honey
- Math, M. V., Khadkikar, R. M., & Kattimani, Y. R. (2013). Honey–a nutrient with medicinal property in reflux. The Indian journal of medical research, 138(6), 1020–1021. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3978955/
- Gupta E., (n.d.). GERD Diet: Foods That Help with Acid Reflux (Heartburn). The Johns Hopkins University, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, and Johns Hopkins Health System. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/gerd-diet-foods-that-help-with-acid-reflux-heartburn
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