Prebiotics are found in Manuka Honey – and they encourage the growth of good bacteria in the digestive tract. Many probiotic supplements do not survive the acidic conditions of the intestinal tract. Only highly resistant forms of bacteria, such as lactobacillus and bifidobacteria, have been shown to survive and others are likely to be destroyed by the highly acidic environment in the stomach.
The gastrointestinal tract contains many types of beneficial bacteria that help to regulate digestion and ensure good health. One type is called bifidobacteria. Research has shown that one way to increase the presence of bifidobaccteria is to consume foods containing prebiotics, which help the good bacteria to replicate and grow. Manuka Honey contains a variety of substances that can act as a prebiotic and encourage the growth of good bacteria. Studies have shown that adding Manuka Honey to yogurt can increase the efficacy of good bacteria.