A nutritionist says swapping sugar in teas and coffees for Manuka honey could help prevent dreaded ‘energy crashes’
08:34, 22 Nov 2025Updated 08:47, 22 Nov 2025
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Melora now has huge sales on for Black Friday (Image: Getty)
For those seeking an easy health upgrade, a nutritionist suggests replacing sugar in teas and coffees with a common kitchen ingredient that could help avoid dreaded ‘energy slumps’. As more people adopt healthier diets, Manuka honey is emerging as a preferred substitute for those desiring a natural sweetener.
Nutritional Therapist Liliana Trukawka stresses that there is a distinct difference between sugar and honey. She states: “While both honey and sugar contain natural sugars, honey offers far more than sweetness. Unlike refined sugar, honey contains trace vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health.
“It also has a lower glycaemic index than sugar, meaning it releases energy more steadily rather than causing sharp spikes and crashes. In the case of Manuka honey, there’s the added bonus of antibacterial properties and immune-supporting activity thanks to its unique compound MGO (methylglyoxal),” reports The Mirror.
Melora’s premium Manuka honeys are rich in antioxidants and the distinctive antibacterial compound MGO, making them an attractive choice for anyone seeking to boost their immunity or experience a more consistent energy release throughout the day. Melora is currently hosting a Black Friday sale, with offers on a range of products.
These promotions are valid until 2 December. The first product on offer is the Manuka Honey 300+ MGO (250g), which includes benefits from New Zealand’s native Manuka flowers. It’s now £10, down from £27.99.
The Manuka Honey 300+ MGO (250g) is available from Melora
£10
Melora
This is a premium, high potency honey produced and packed in New Zealand, meeting strict government guidelines for authenticity, the brand says
This premium, high-strength honey is produced and packed in New Zealand, adhering to strict government guidelines for authenticity, according to the brand. Renowned for its rich texture and unique flavour, this luxurious honey is praised for its versatility.
Customers can enjoy it straight from the spoon for an instant wellness boost or mix it into hot lemon and other beverages for soothing comfort. The Manuka Honey Squeeze Bottle 70+ MGO Blueberry is now also on sale for £8, down from £27.99.
It combines authentic Manuka honey with pure New Zealand Wildflower honey and natural blueberry extract, resulting in a delightfully vibrant, fruit-burst flavour. The outcome is a smooth, antioxidant-rich honey with a naturally sweet, slightly tangy blueberry twist, making it perfect for those seeking a healthier alternative to refined sugar without sacrificing taste.
Shoppers are saying it’s the ‘nicest honey ever'(Image: Melora)
As an alternative, Holland and Barrett also offers the New Zealand Clover Honey (225g) for £5. This honey has a sweet, fragrant taste with floral notes and is sourced from beehives in New Zealand.
Another option for honey lovers is the M&S Pure Set Honey, available from Ocado for £1.45. This honey, harvested with care from M&S Select Farms, is described as ‘ideal for spreading thickly on morning toast’.
However, customers have given high ratings to the Manuka Honey on the Melora website. One satisfied customer said: “This is the nicest honey ever. Highly recommended.”
Another person commented: “Great honey, very easy squeeze bottle and good choice of flavours.”
Some users, however, had minor reservations. For instance, one person suggested: “When the bottle is nearly empty, just put hot water in, swill it around and drink. It’s lovely!” but expressed disappointment that the cinnamon version has been discontinued.
Another customer mentioned not receiving a 10% discount after signing up for an email discount, but the brand advises shoppers to check their junk mail.
Nevertheless, the majority of reviews were positive, with one shopper writing: “Really good, great taste.”