Here at Manuka Doctor we aim to raise awareness of health issues close to our customer’s hearts. Many of you have written in to us to tell us your own personal health achievements after making Manuka honey part of your everyday wellbeing. This month, we are focusing on Multiple sclerosis (MS), a neurological condition affecting the nerves.
Immune systems are there to protect us by fighting off infection, however with MS sufferers the immune system attacks the nerves by mistake. Nerves control lots of different parts of the body, which is why MS symptoms are different for everyone. Once diagnosed, MS stays with you for life, but treatments and specialists can help to manage the condition and its symptoms.
So how can Manuka honey can help MS symptoms?
Manuka honey may help with symptoms associated with MS, such as general immune support, gut health, inflammation and fatigue. It’s important to remember that Manuka honey is a complementary food that may help symptoms, it is not a medical treatment.
Inflammation
MS involves chronic inflammation of the central nervous system, reducing general systemic inflammation with Manuka honey may help support overall health. Manuka honey contains polyphenols and flavonoids which have been found to help dampen down inflammation by modulating the release of substances including cytokines.
Antioxidant protection
Oxidative stress plays a role in nerve damage in MS. Manuka honey has been found to have high levels of antioxidants compared to regular honey, particularly a polyphenol called methyl syringate. Antioxidants are substances that destroy damaging free radicals in the body, thereby protecting the body’s cells in a number of ways, including antibacterial and anti-inflammatory actions.[1]
Gut health and immune balance
Gut microbiome health is increasingly linked to immune regulation in MS. Studies have revealed that honey contains types of prebiotic called fructo-oligosaccharides, which stimulate and maintain the growth of probiotics including lactobacillus and bifidobacterium.[2]
A healthy microbiome has been shown to support the immune system, although this connection is still being researched.
Energy and fatigue management
MS-related fatigue is common. Manuka honey is a great natural energy source as it is low on the glycaemic index (GI) and therefore releases glucose into the bloodstream slower – keeping your blood sugar levels steady all day, and your energy higher.
Oral and wound care
MS can increase the risk of mouth sores, infections, or slow-healing skin wounds due to reduced mobility or medications. Manuka honey contains naturally high levels of Methylgloxal (MGO) and this is considered the main reason Manuka honey is so good at fighting bacteria especially when used topically or for oral health.
This is what our customer’s say about Manuka Honey and their symptoms
1000 MGO
"I’ve been using it for the past two years, and I feel my immune system has improved much since then, as I have multiple immune disorders. I recommend it to everyone I know." MA
100 MGO
"My daughter has MS and has found that this honey gives her energy as she suffers from extreme fatigue. I would certainly recommend this product." Maureen M
540 MGO
"OUTSTANDING!!! I have an auto immune problem and I have weekly bacterial infections. I haven't had one in 2 months the exact time I've been taking 2 tsp a day of the 540 manuka. The flavour is insane!!! So rich and creamy I've never tasted any honey so good in my life and very medicinal very very happy thank you." Charlie T
Partnering with our Local MS Charity
Manuka Doctor is proud to be partnering with the Sussex MS Centre. Without donations, the centre would not be able to provide the ongoing support and services vital to the everyday health and wellbeing of its members.
Quote from Sussex MS Centre
"We are enormously grateful to Manuka Doctor for their donation to the Sussex MS Centre. We receive no funding from government statutory bodies, so we rely on the donations of members, charitable trusts, grant bodies, funds raised by community groups – and, of course, the support of individuals taking on sponsored events and challenges for the Centre."
"The centre is a flourishing user-led community with a small team of professional staff, over fifty volunteers and a dedicated Board of Trustees. Most involved have MS, though some have other conditions. Oxygen Therapy remains at the heart of what we do, as well as offering individual holistic therapies, classes, support groups and talks. Without donations such as this, we would not be able to open our doors every day and offer the continued support to our members."
Jenny Johnson, a Manuka Doctor customer and Sussex MS Centre member, relies heavily on the services and support offered by the centre. Jenny attends twice weekly for oxygen therapy and exercise classes and credits the comradery of fellow members for helping her manage the emotional impact of the disease. Something that is often overlooked by non-sufferers.
As well as attending the centre, Jenny maintains a healthy lifestyle and praises Manuka honey for its general wellbeing properties. Jenny is rarely ill with a cough or cold and credits Manuka for that much needed natural boost on low energy days.
"I can’t thank the centre enough for the services and support it has offered to me and other members since I was diagnosed. The centre is a lifeline for many people there both in terms of physical and mental wellbeing. I’m so happy that Manuka Doctor has partnered with the centre offering vital income which means the centre can open their doors each day." Jenny Johnson
References
[1] Wang H. The study of the antioxidant activity of phenolic components of Manuka Honey (thesis, University of Waikato) https://researchcommons.waikato.ac.nz/bitstream/handle/10289/5696/thesis.pdf?sequence=3
[2] Landry BKU et al. Honey, probiotics and prebiotics: review. Research Journal of Pharmaceutical, Biological and Chemical Sciences 7(5):2428 · September 2016
