What is the glycemic index of manuka honey?
According to the January app, the glycemic index of manuka honey is 57. This is considered Medium. By looking up manuka honey in the January app, you can quickly see the glycemic index of that food as well as the glycemic load. This information can help guide your dietary choices.
What impact will this have on my blood sugar levels?
When you eat manuka honey, your blood sugar levels will rise slowly. This is because of the medium glycemic index of manuka honey. Foods with a high glycemic index can cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels, while foods with a low glycemic index will cause a more gradual increase.
When using the January app, we can see the calories, macros, and glycemic index (GI) / glycemic load (GL) of that food item. But here's the best part: We can also see our predicted blood sugar response, without requiring you to wear a sensor.
Can people with diabetes eat manuka honey?
People with diabetes can eat manuka honey in moderation, but it is important to monitor blood sugar levels and consult a healthcare provider. Because manuka honey has a medium glycemic index, it can impact blood sugar levels. Individual responses can vary, so it's crucial to be mindful of portions and frequency of intake. This is not medical advice, and you should consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
What are the health benefits of manuka honey?
Manuka honey is known for its unique antibacterial properties, attributed to the presence of methylglyoxal. It also contains antioxidants, which can help protect cells from damage. Manuka honey is often used to soothe sore throats, improve digestive health, and promote wound healing. However, more research is needed to fully understand its health benefits.
Nutritional Information
Here is the nutritional information for manuka honey:
- Calories: 60 (per tablespoon)
- Protein: 0.1g
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 0g
- Calcium: 1mg
- Potassium: 10mg
- Sodium: 1mg
- Vitamin C: 0.5mg
What are some healthy alternatives to manuka honey?
If you're looking for alternatives to manuka honey, consider other natural sweeteners like raw honey, maple syrup, or date syrup. These alternatives also offer unique flavors and nutritional profiles. For those watching their glycemic index, stevia or monk fruit sweetener can be good options as they have little to no impact on blood sugar levels.
Conclusion
Manuka honey, with its medium glycemic index, can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. It offers various health benefits, particularly its antibacterial and antioxidant properties. However, people with diabetes should monitor their intake and consult with a healthcare provider. By understanding the glycemic index and nutritional information of foods like manuka honey, you can make informed choices that support your health and well-being.
Use January to see your predicted blood sugar before you eat
To check the glycemic index of over 32M foods, as well as see your predicted blood sugar response before you eat them, use the January app. It’s completely free to download and use and it provides you with a treasure trove of nutritional and glucose insights to help you achieve your health goals.
FAQs about Manuka Honey
Does the glycemic index of Manuka honey differ depending on the flower source?
Manuka honey is derived from the nectar of the Manuka tree, native to New Zealand and parts of Australia. However, the glycemic index can slightly vary depending on the region where it's harvested and the specific floral sources in that area. Generally, the GI remains around 57, but slight fluctuations can occur based on the purity and specific floral compositions of the honey.
How does the time of day affect the glycemic impact of consuming Manuka honey?
While the glycemic index itself does not change with the time of day, the body's response to sugars can vary. Morning consumption may lead to a different metabolic response compared to evening consumption due to the body's circadian rhythms. Starting the day with Manuka honey can provide a steady source of energy, while intake in the evening might lead to a different insulin response, potentially affecting sleep and glucose regulation.
Does heating Manuka honey alter its glycemic index?
Heating honey can break down some of its beneficial enzymes and nutrients, but it does not significantly alter the glycemic index. However, consuming heated Manuka honey may result in a quicker absorption of sugars, potentially causing a more rapid spike in blood sugar levels as compared to consuming it raw. It's best to enjoy Manuka honey in its natural state to maintain its full health benefits.
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