When it comes to men’s health, we usually focus on fitness, nutrition, and managing stress. However, the conversation often falls short when considering many other health conditions that men experience throughout their lives, including heart disease, obesity, diabetes, and depression.
While regular check-ups and lifestyle changes are necessary, one natural ally offered by nature may make a difference to men’s health—and that is Manuka honey!
Why Manuka honey?
Unlike other types of honey, Manuka honey contains a key compound called methylglyoxal (MGO), which gives it strong antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Manuka honey also contains hydrogen peroxide and other antioxidants that support immune health, gut health, energy, tissue repair, and mental health.
Benefits of Manuka honey for men’s health
Manuka honey has many benefits for health, from wound healing, soothing colds and coughs, and skin repair to promoting oral health, reducing inflammation, and supporting the immune system. But since this blog post is about men’s health, here are five key benefits that are especially relevant for men.
1. Heart health
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a major concern for men. According to the Heart Foundation, 40% more men die from CVD compared to women and more men are hospitalised each year for CVD than women.
Manuka honey’s bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids, are believed to protect the heart in several ways. These include improving how the body handles fats, supporting healthy blood pressure, keeping the heartbeat steady, and reducing damage during a heart attack. Its antioxidant effects also help protect heart cells from stress and injury.
2. Immune health
Men tend to have a weaker immune system compared to women, making them more vulnerable to certain infections, diseases, and chronic conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers.
This is because of the differences in sex hormones. Estrogen in women will strengthen the immune response, while testosterone can suppress it. Genetics also play a role in this. Women have two X chromosomes, which carry immune-related genes. Since men only have one X chromosome, it reduces their immune response.
But Manuka honey can be beneficial here. Research suggests that Manuka honey can activate and strengthen immune responses, which may help the body fight infections and recover from illness, thus improving resilience.
3. Sexual health
Testosterone is a hormone associated with men, playing a key role in developing male reproductive tissues, building muscle mass, maintaining bone density, and supporting libido, energy levels, and mood.
Animal and laboratory studies suggest that honey, including Manuka honey, may boost testosterone levels, which can enhance libido, sexual drive, and sperm production. One study found that 5% of Palestinian honey every day for 20 days, helped improve sperm count and increased the activity of an enzyme that plays a role in producing energy for sperm to move properly.
4. Mental health
Depression affects 1 in 8 men at some point in their lives, according to Healthdirect, with 7 men dying of suicide every day in Australia. Men are more aware of the physical symptoms of depression, such as fatigue, irritability and weight loss, rather than the emotional signs, making it difficult for them to seek help and support.
There is emerging evidence (mainly animal studies) between honey, including Manuka honey, and reduced depression symptoms. These studies show that honey may reduce signs of depression, lower stress hormones like cortisol, and improve antioxidant levels that protect the brain from stress and inflammation.
5. Digestive health
Gut health plays an important role in both physical and mental health. Men and women experience different rates of gut-related conditions. For example, men are more likely to have acid reflux and some stomach ulcers. Men also tend to have less diversity of gut bacteria, which can affect digestion and impact immunity and mood.
Moreover, men tend to consume more alcohol and meat than women, which negatively affects their health. As such, more men are being diagnosed and dying from bowel cancer than women. However, eating healthy can reduce disease risk with research showing that a healthy diet can reduce the likelihood of developing prostate cancer, one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in men.
To maintain a healthy gut, it’s important for men to change their dietary habits.
Manuka honey is rich in prebiotics, which help the growth of good gut bacteria. A healthy gut microbiome is not only linked to better mood and reduced anxiety, but it also improves cognitive function and supports mental wellbeing.
Adding Manuka honey to your diet
Manuka honey is a powerhouse of health-supporting properties, and it is a natural way for men to improve and optimise their health. If you have any chronic conditions, allergies, or concerns, it’s always best to consult a healthcare professional before adding honey to your diet.
If you are looking for premium Manuka honey to support your health, try our range of Manuka honey products found on our website.
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