How Much MGO Per Day? Understanding Dosage for Manuka Honey and Magnesium Oxide

January 4, 2026 •

4 min read

According to researchers at Germany's Technical University of Dresden, the methylglyoxal (MGO) content in Manuka honey can be up to 100 times higher than in regular honey, distinguishing it as a potent natural product. Understanding the right amount of MGO to consume daily depends heavily on whether you are referring to this active compound in Manuka honey or to magnesium oxide, another substance abbreviated as MgO.

Quick Summary

This article explains the meaning of MGO in different contexts, focusing on common consumption practices for Manuka honey based on potency and individual wellness goals. It also clarifies the distinction from magnesium oxide (MgO), detailing its medical uses.

Key Points

Manuka MGO Consumption: For Manuka honey, typical daily use often involves 1 to 2 teaspoons of varieties with MGO ratings like 100+ to 250+, with higher potency honeys used for specific purposes.
Magnesium Oxide Use: Medical applications for Magnesium Oxide (MgO) are guided by a healthcare provider for conditions such as constipation.
Wellness vs. Targeted Use: The amount of Manuka honey MGO often depends on whether it's for general immune support or for specific issues like digestion.
Manuka Honey Moderation: Due to high sugar content, mindful consumption of Manuka honey is advised, especially for individuals managing blood sugar.
MGO Bioavailability: The MGO in Manuka honey is distinct from Magnesium Oxide, which is not readily absorbed and is often used for its effects on the digestive system.
Professional Consultation: It is advisable to consult a doctor or healthcare professional before using supplements or high-potency honey for health purposes.

Understanding the 'MGO' Acronym

Before considering daily intake, it is crucial to understand that the acronym 'MGO' can refer to two very different substances with distinct applications. The most common health and wellness-related use is in the context of Manuka honey, where MGO stands for methylglyoxal. The other primary meaning is Magnesium Oxide, a supplement and medication often used for specific medical conditions. This guide addresses both to provide clarity on the question, "How much MGO per day?"

Manuka Honey and Methylglyoxal (MGO)

Methylglyoxal (MGO) is a naturally occurring compound found in Manuka honey, and its concentration is a key indicator of the honey's antibacterial strength. The higher the MGO rating (measured in mg/kg), the more potent the honey. The appropriate daily intake is not a universal rule but is often guided by the honey's strength and your wellness goals.

Many consumers incorporate Manuka honey into their daily routines for general wellness, immune support, or specific ailments like sore throats or digestive issues. Common approaches involve consuming small quantities, such as teaspoons or tablespoons, with the MGO rating potentially influencing the amount used.

Ways people commonly incorporate Manuka honey into their daily routines include:

Straight from the spoon: A direct method to consume the honey.
Mixed in warm water or tea: A soothing way to consume it.
Drizzled over food: Can be added to various dishes.
Added to smoothies: Can enhance beverages.

It is important to avoid heating Manuka honey to high temperatures, as this can degrade its beneficial compounds.

Magnesium Oxide (MgO)

In a medical or supplemental context, MgO refers to Magnesium Oxide. This is a mineral compound used for specific health issues, such as acting as a laxative or antacid due to its ability to draw water into the intestines.

Magnesium oxide is generally not the preferred choice for addressing general magnesium deficiency because it has low bioavailability compared to other forms like magnesium citrate or glycinate. Medical uses and associated amounts can vary widely and should only be considered under the guidance of a healthcare professional. For example, it is sometimes used for conditions like migraines, but the appropriate amount needed to achieve desired effects while avoiding side effects can vary greatly.

Comparison of Manuka Honey MGO and Magnesium Oxide (MgO)


Feature	Manuka Honey (Methylglyoxal - MGO)	Magnesium Oxide (MgO)
Primary Use	Antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, general wellness, digestive support.	Antacid, laxative, addressing specific mineral imbalances.
Typical Consumption	Often consumed in small quantities, like teaspoons, depending on MGO level and intended use.	Use is typically for specific medical purposes and amounts are determined by a healthcare provider.
Composition	Natural compound derived from Manuka nectar.	Mineral compound of magnesium and oxygen.
Potency Indicator	The MGO number on the label (e.g., MGO 400+).	Elemental magnesium content within the supplement.
Considerations	High sugar content, not suitable for infants under 1 year, caution for individuals managing blood sugar.	May cause digestive upset like diarrhea at certain amounts.

Establishing Your Daily MGO Intake

When considering how much MGO per day to consume, clarify which MGO you are interested in. If it is Manuka honey, the amount is generally flexible and guided by your health goals and the honey's MGO rating. For general daily wellness, a lower MGO rating may be used in small amounts. For more targeted support, a higher MGO product might be used, potentially in different quantities.

If you are considering Magnesium Oxide supplements, particularly for medical purposes, a healthcare professional must advise on its use. Recommended dietary allowances (RDA) for elemental magnesium exist, but the specific use of a supplement like Magnesium Oxide depends on the condition being addressed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the amount of MGO you should consume daily is not a single, fixed number. For Manuka honey (Methylglyoxal), common practice involves consuming small quantities, with the potency determined by the MGO rating. For Magnesium Oxide (MgO), its use is medically guided and often specific to the health issue it addresses. Regardless of the type of MGO, consulting with a healthcare provider is essential, especially for individuals with underlying health conditions or those considering therapeutic uses. Understanding the key differences and appropriate usage for each helps ensure safe and effective incorporation of MGO.

For more information on the antibacterial properties of MGO in Manuka honey, you can consult research documented in the National Library of Medicine.

Considerations for Measuring MGO Intake

When consuming Manuka honey, using standard measuring tools like teaspoons or tablespoons can help manage intake.
Consider the MGO number on Manuka honey; higher ratings may influence how much is used.
If using magnesium oxide, follow guidance from a healthcare provider or product labeling.
Remember that magnesium from food sources also contributes to overall intake.
Digestive effects can sometimes be managed by adjusting the amount of magnesium oxide used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Manuka honey MGO stands for methylglyoxal, a naturally occurring antibacterial compound, while Magnesium Oxide (MgO) is a mineral compound used as a supplement or medication.

For daily immune and general wellness, many consumers use lower MGO rated Manuka honey (e.g., MGO 100+ to 250+), often consuming 1 to 2 teaspoons per day.

While generally safe in moderation, higher MGO ratings (like MGO 600+ or higher) are typically used for more targeted, short-term support. Consideration should be given to the sugar content.

Magnesium Oxide is sometimes used as a laxative, and its use for constipation should be guided by a healthcare professional.

While generally considered safe, high-dose Manuka honey might impact blood sugar levels and potentially interact with certain medications. Consulting a healthcare provider is recommended.

To preserve its beneficial compounds, Manuka honey is often consumed raw, such as straight from the spoon, or mixed into lukewarm drinks or food.

No. While many honeys have some antibacterial properties, MGO is a stable, potent antibacterial compound uniquely prominent in Manuka honey. Higher MGO indicates stronger non-peroxide antibacterial activity.