Use of Manuka Honey by Diabetics
22/11/2006

Article provided by http://www.worldofnz.co.uk/

Manuka Honey has been getting a growing reputation for its natural healing properties in aiding wound healing, including for leg ulcers, and for helping with digestive problems.

It should be noted that this reputation, and the anecdotal and clinical evidence supporting it come from the use of active manuka honey, that has a UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) rating of 10 or higher. This is a measure of the strength of the antibiotic and antiseptic properties in the honey and is obtained by an independent laboratory test.

For people with Diabetes, some extra care should be used in deciding to use Manuka Honey. It is a still a natural honey and so each individuals ability to take honey will affect the suitability of it for them. Manuka Honey has a lower GI than sucrose (the refined cane sugar) which is generally avoided by diabetics, as it is made up of glucose and fructose. It also contains some vitamins and minerals which assist to balance blood sugar.

However, it is still a sugar. Therefore it is recommended that diabetic persons wanting to take Manuka Honey internally should consult their doctor before including honey in their diet, and if agreed, check their glucose levels after taking it.

If it is to be an external use of Manuka Honey, eg for diabetic or leg ulcers, wound care, or burns, then it is still recommended for diabetics to check their glucose levels after applying. This is a precautionary measure as the honey can penetrate quite deep into the skin’s tissue. It is unlikely that it would actually reach the blood and affect someone’s blood glucose levels, however as each individuals circumstances can be unique, checking is the recommended thing to do.

For further information on Manuka Honey, and the possibility to order, Click this Link 

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