Summary
This narrative review examines the evidence base for honey's prebiotic potential in re-engineering the gut microbiome towards a healthier state. Drawing on in vitro, animal, and pilot human studies, the authors synthesise findings on honey's capacity to suppress pathogenic bacteria whilst stimulating growth of beneficial microorganisms, whilst identifying knowledge gaps and exploring honey as a dietary intervention for microbiota-mediated health improvement.
UK applicability
The findings are potentially applicable to UK clinical and public health contexts, particularly given widespread interest in microbiota-targeted dietary interventions. However, the review notes reliance on pilot human studies, suggesting further robust clinical trials in UK populations would be needed to establish efficacy and inform dietary guidance or therapeutic recommendations.
Key measures
Gut microbiota composition and diversity; presence of pathogenic bacteria; abundance of beneficial bacterial species; markers of gut inflammation; functional outcomes related to gut health
Outcomes reported
The review synthesised evidence from in vitro, animal, and pilot human studies on honey's prebiotic activity and capacity to modulate gut microbial composition and reduce infection and inflammation. It identified specific pathogenic bacteria (Salmonella, Escherichia coli, Clostridiodes difficile) that honey may suppress whilst promoting beneficial genera (Lactobacillus, Bifidobacteria).
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