HEALTH-PROMOTING EFFECTS OF MANUKA HONEY

Honey properties are determined by the level of methylglyoxal (antimicrobial substance) from 30 to 550 in the case of MGO method or from 5 to 20 by UMF method. Previous studies have shown that high levels of methylglyoxal in Manuka honey support the body’s defense mechanisms, mainly by stimulating the growth of probiotic intestinal bacteria. The antibacterial properties of honey make it possible to use it to treat wounds and bedsores and prevent inflammation in the body, which is important in a sports training.

The most significant study results showed that honey has a positive effect on increasing the

body’s immune response as it is highly antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. It means it can be

used in healing wounds by stopping the growth of harmful bacteria, for example : Staphylococcus aureus. Its intake prevents the atherosclerosis. Moreover, acetylcholine present in Manuka honey lowers blood pressure and improves blood circulation, choline has a protective effect on the liver and increases the secretion of bile. Metal ions stimulate the production of red blood cells and hemoglobin. The high content of methylglyoxal, and thus, the specific health benefits of Manuka honey can be used in the diet and supplementation of athletes. Changes occurring in the body due to physical exercise, like the oxidative stress, increase the level of free radicals ,and in result,cause a fall in the exercise potential of the body as well as reduce the immunological barrier. This problem can be particularly observed in winter athletes. Current research results on pro-health properties of Manuka honey have indicated that it can counteract those negative effects. Namely, negative factors of physical exercise are blocked in an athlete’s body by honey [1], and Manuka honey may, in particular, have a positive impact on the health of physically active people.