If you’re looking for an alternative solution to ease the discomfort of heartburn reflux, you’ve come to the right place.
Each person responds differently to treatments, which is why finding what suits your situation is crucial.
Among the many natural remedies that can relieve the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux, honey proves to be an effective option.
A significant number of people who have tried traditional medications for GERD without success turn to honey as a natural solution. Unlike pharmaceutical treatments that temporarily alleviate symptoms, honey offers a more holistic approach.
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Gastric reflux and honey: Which one to choose?
Choosing the right honey is essential to maximize its natural benefits.
Sourcing high-quality honey directly from a beekeeper is preferable.
To support digestive comfort, opt for acacia, rosemary, sunflower, or dandelion honey.
However, Manuka honey, native to New Zealand, stands out for its unique properties.
Derived from the Manuka tree, this honey has been used by the Maori people for millennia due to its exceptional antibacterial properties.
Unlike other types of honey, it does not contain hydrogen peroxide and possesses non-peroxide activity.
Additionally, it can combat Staphylococcus aureus, a unique characteristic.
While it may be more expensive, Manuka honey remains the optimal choice for those suffering from more intense gastroesophageal reflux, especially at night.
Manuka Honey - New Zealand (aff)
The therapeutic benefits of honey
Honey has long been recognized for its healing properties.
For reflux, its three primary properties are:
- Antibacterial properties
For honey to be truly effective, it must come from various nectar sources.
This diversity gives it its antibacterial potential.
- Healing action
Honey naturally contains hydrogen peroxide, known for its ability to promote the healing of deep wounds.
Manuka honey, which lacks hydrogen peroxide, is even used in hospitals to accelerate the healing of diabetic ulcers.
- Antioxidant effects
The flavonoids in honey, such as pinocembrin, pinobanskin, and others, offer antiproliferative activity that can positively influence various types of tumors.
Additionally, it is an immune booster for patients undergoing chemotherapy.
Natural treatments for gastric reflux
Several natural remedies are effective in relieving gastric reflux, including:
Heartburn Honey Lemon
Although lemons are acidic, they have been shown to counteract damaging acidity in the esophageal mucosa.
The recipe for warm lemon honey water is as follows:
- Mix a tablespoon of lemon juice in warm or hot water and drink it a few minutes before meals.
- Add two tablespoons of honey.
Apple Cider Vinegar for heartburn
Apple cider vinegar is an excellent natural remedy for the stomach due to its antibacterial and antifungal properties.
However, ensure you use organic, unfiltered apple cider vinegar containing the “mother” to fully benefit from its properties.
To enhance its anti-inflammatory effects, add honey.
The apple cider vinegar honey recipe is as follows:
- Mix two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with one tablespoon of honey diluted in a glass of water (aff).
Ginger for heartburn
Ginger tea is the best choice to treat an acidic stomach.
Whether in tea form or otherwise, ginger is among the best natural remedies for digestion.
However, ginger tea may not be the most pleasant drink, which is why adding honey and a zest of lemon makes it more palatable.
This combination is arguably the most effective natural remedy for this issue.
Yogurt and gastric reflux
Another way to benefit from honey’s properties is to combine it with yogurt when dealing with bloating.
Simply add two teaspoons of honey to a small portion of yogurt for quick relief.
Honey and Cinnamon
This is an interesting alternative that’s easy to prepare when facing a heavy stomach.
The honey and cinnamon recipe is simple:
- Mix honey with powdered cinnamon—always use organic Ceylon Cinnamon—until it forms a smooth paste (aff).
Consume this preparation occasionally during discomfort or use it as a spread for breakfast for chronic gastritis.
Cinnamon Honey tea
Cinnamon tea is a natural anti-inflammatory beverage that also reduces intestinal gas production.
Its properties improve digestion and reduce excess acidity in the intestine.
The cinnamon tea recipe is as follows:
- Prepare a cup of water, add a teaspoon of cinnamon and a teaspoon of honey.
- Bring to a boil and let it rest for 10 minutes.
Manuka honey should be prioritized.
How to use honey for stomach issues
Honey plays an essential role in protecting the esophageal mucosa against gastric acidity.
It forms a protective layer, reducing the burning sensations during acid reflux.
Thanks to its viscosity, honey remains in contact with the mucosa longer, offering lasting relief compared to medications.
In summary, honey provides a natural and effective approach to alleviating the symptoms of gastric reflux.
Various honey-based remedies can serve as practical and beneficial solutions for soothing gastroesophageal discomfort.
However, if you notice severe symptoms such as chest pain, blood in saliva or stools, unexplained weight loss, or difficulty swallowing, make sure to consult a specialist promptly.
You may require specific medications even if you’ve adjusted your dietary habits.
FAQ on Honey: Benefits, storage, and use
What is honey?
Honey is a sweet substance made by bees.
A completely natural product, it contains vitamins, trace elements, and enzymes like fruits.
Bees store this substance in the hive so that they can consume it throughout the year.
Studies have shown that bees must forage over 8 million flowers to produce 500 grams of honey
What are the benefits of honey?
Honey has antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Energy food, it delivers only 310kcal per 100 grams.
It improves the retention of calcium and magnesium, stimulates the immune system, fights infections.
Each honey has its specificity.
Note for example that acacia honey is an intestinal regulator, thyme honey is very antiseptic due to its high copper content...
Does honey expire?
Stored in a dry place away from light, honey never expires.
It contains bacteriostatic agents, which means that no bacteria can grow on it.
Only its texture can change over time without any consequence on its virtues.
Does honey have sugar?
Honey contains 82 grams of sugar per 100 grams.
However, it is a slower and more digestible sugar than sugar from beets or sugar cane.
It is refined sugar made up of fructose (slow sugar) and glucose.
It is devoid of sucrose and has a healthier glycemic index than sugar.
Is honey safe?
Honey is not just a sweet substance.
It contains minerals, vitamins, trace elements, and polyphenols, the natural antioxidants of flowers.
For this reason, it has real protective power and contributes to the treatment of many ailments: pulmonary, hepatic, cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, diabetes, cancer...
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