Does Manuka Honey Help Lower Cholesterol? An In-Depth Analysis

January 11, 2026 •

3 min read

Recent reviews have indicated that raw honey, including varieties like Manuka, may improve certain cardiometabolic risk factors, such as blood sugar and cholesterol levels. This article delves into whether and how Manuka honey help lower cholesterol, exploring the scientific evidence behind its cardiovascular health claims.

Quick Summary

An analysis of scientific studies reveals that Manuka honey, as a replacement for refined sugar, may positively influence lipid profiles by reducing LDL and total cholesterol and increasing HDL, though further research is needed.

Key Points

Antioxidant Power: Manuka honey contains potent antioxidants like flavonoids and polyphenols that combat oxidative stress, which contributes to heart disease and plaque buildup.
Improved Lipid Profile: Studies on natural honey, including Manuka, show potential to reduce LDL (bad) and total cholesterol while increasing HDL (good) cholesterol, particularly when replacing refined sugar.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Manuka honey's anti-inflammatory properties may help combat chronic inflammation, a known risk factor for cardiovascular problems.
Not a Standalone Treatment: The potential benefits of Manuka honey for cholesterol are best realized as part of a balanced, heart-healthy diet and exercise regimen, not as a solitary cure.
Replace, Don't Add: For cardiovascular benefits, honey should replace less healthy sweeteners like table sugar, rather than being added to the diet as an extra source of calories.
Consider Raw, Monofloral Varieties: Raw, minimally processed, and monofloral honeys like Manuka may offer more significant health benefits compared to processed, refined honey.

The Scientific Link Between Honey and Cholesterol

Antioxidants and Lipid Profile

One of the most promising aspects of honey's potential effect on cardiovascular health is its high antioxidant content, specifically phenolic compounds and flavonoids. These antioxidants combat oxidative stress, a known contributor to heart disease and atherosclerosis. By reducing the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, honey's bioactive components may help prevent the buildup of plaque in arteries.

Clinical Evidence on Honey and Lipid Levels

Several clinical trials and systematic reviews have explored honey's impact on lipid profiles. A 2022 meta-analysis published in the Journal of Nutrition Reviews, consolidating data from 18 trials involving over 1,100 participants, found positive associations between honey consumption and cardiovascular health markers. The findings suggested that honey could decrease LDL ("bad") cholesterol and total cholesterol, while also increasing HDL ("good") cholesterol. Importantly, these benefits were more pronounced when honey was used to replace refined sugar in a healthy diet, rather than as an additional calorie source.

Comparison of Honey Types

While research on specific honey types like Manuka is still developing, general honey studies provide valuable context. Some evidence suggests that raw and monofloral honeys, including Manuka, may offer more potent benefits than heavily processed, multifloral varieties. Manuka honey is particularly noted for its high levels of methylglyoxal (MGO) and potent anti-inflammatory properties, which may offer distinct cardiovascular advantages.

How Honey Improves Cholesterol

Researchers have identified several potential mechanisms by which honey may improve cholesterol levels:

Antioxidant Effects: The antioxidants in honey help neutralize free radicals and prevent the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, a key step in the development of atherosclerosis.
Reduction in Inflammation: Manuka honey possesses significant anti-inflammatory properties. Chronic inflammation contributes to cardiovascular disease, so reducing it can improve heart health.
Sugar Substitution: By replacing table sugar with honey, individuals can still enjoy sweetness while mitigating the negative effects of sucrose, which can raise triglyceride levels.
Impact on Gut Health: Some studies suggest that honey acts as a prebiotic, promoting beneficial gut bacteria. A healthy gut microbiome is increasingly linked to better cardiovascular outcomes.

The Importance of a Holistic Approach

It is crucial to emphasize that Manuka honey is not a standalone cure for high cholesterol. Its potential benefits are best realized when integrated into a balanced, heart-healthy lifestyle that includes a nutritious diet and regular exercise. Relying solely on honey without other lifestyle changes is unlikely to produce significant, lasting results. Those with existing health conditions should always consult a healthcare professional before making substantial dietary changes.

Comparison: Manuka Honey vs. Regular Sugar for Cholesterol


Feature	Manuka Honey (Raw)	Regular Table Sugar (Sucrose)
Cardiovascular Effects	May improve lipid profile (increase HDL, decrease LDL, TC, TG)	Increases LDL and total cholesterol
Antioxidant Content	High in flavonoids and polyphenols	None
Anti-Inflammatory Properties	Contains bioactive compounds like MGO that reduce inflammation	None; associated with increased inflammation
Blood Sugar Impact	Raises blood sugar less than sucrose, though still a sugar	Causes rapid blood sugar spikes and crashes
Energy Release	Provides more sustained energy due to its complex sugars	Quick energy burst followed by a crash
Recommended Use	Moderate quantities as a substitute for refined sugar	Limited consumption in a healthy diet

Conclusion

While more targeted research specifically on Manuka honey's effect on cholesterol is needed, existing evidence on natural raw honey is promising. Studies suggest that using honey as a replacement for refined sugar within a healthy diet may help improve lipid profiles by reducing LDL and total cholesterol, and increasing HDL cholesterol. This effect is largely attributed to honey's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, particularly pronounced in raw, monofloral varieties like Manuka. However, it is not a magic bullet and should be considered part of a broader, heart-healthy lifestyle, not a sole remedy. Individuals with elevated cholesterol or other health concerns should always consult their doctor for personalized dietary recommendations.

Expert Opinion

According to research from the University of Toronto, which involved a review of 18 controlled trials, raw, monofloral honey has shown potential for improving cardiometabolic health measures. This reinforces the idea that swapping honey for refined sugar could offer tangible benefits for individuals seeking to manage their cholesterol naturally. However, experts advise that moderation is key, and honey's sugar content still necessitates careful consumption.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, simply adding Manuka honey to your diet is unlikely to have a significant effect on its own. For potential cardiovascular benefits, it should be used as a replacement for refined sugars, not as an extra source of calories.

Research indicates that effects were observed when honey was consumed in place of added sugars in healthy dietary patterns. It is best to consult a healthcare professional for a personalized recommendation and use it in moderation.

While the UMF rating primarily indicates antibacterial potency, higher-quality Manuka honey with more bioactive compounds generally aligns with the raw, monofloral types that research suggests have more pronounced health benefits.

No. Research indicates that the floral source and processing method of honey influence its health effects. Raw and monofloral honeys like Manuka and clover have been more consistently linked to positive cardiometabolic outcomes than processed honey.

Individuals with diabetes should be cautious with their honey intake due to its natural sugar content. While honey raises blood sugar less than table sugar, it is still a carbohydrate and should be managed under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

Honey is often seen as a better alternative to refined table sugar because it offers antioxidant benefits and a slower energy release. Clinical studies suggest that replacing sugar with honey can improve lipid profiles, whereas high sugar intake increases cardiovascular risks.

The primary mechanism is believed to be the antioxidant activity of its flavonoids and polyphenols. By inhibiting the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, these compounds help protect against the arterial plaque formation that leads to heart disease.