Food With Antibiotic Properties

An antibiotic is an antimicrobial agent that acts against bacteria. They act by either inhibiting growth or directly killing the bacteria. It is important to note that antibiotics are not effective against viruses such as the common cold (flu) or influenza. Today, there are various antibiotic drugs available for the treatment and prevention of bacterial infections. Even with these varieties of antibiotics, there has been an emerging issue of antibiotics resistance. Antibiotic-resistant can be associated with the natural evolution of bacteria or the improper use of antibiotics. Antibiotic resistance has sparked interest in food with antibiotics qualities. Our immune system helps our body to fight against infections but needs support which can be obtained from natural substances. Food with antibiotics properties can support our body's defense mechanism to fight against bacteria. Hippocrates said, “let thy food be thy medicine”. Here are common foods that have antibiotic properties.

1. Honey (Manuka Honey): Honey is used for dressing wounds as it contains various bioactive compounds that aid wound healing. Most kinds of honey contain enzymes that release hydrogen peroxide, which is antibacterial. The hydrogen peroxide in honey is easily inactivated by blood, hindering their antibacterial effect. The Manuka honey (raw) honey contains methylglyoxal which responsible for its antibacterial activity. The active ingredient methylglyoxal is not inactivated by the body. With this, the Manuka honey helps in wound dressing and acts as an antibiotic.



2. Yogurt: Yogurt releases water-soluble peptide extracts (WSPEs) that possess antibiotic activities. These WSPEs are more effective against gram-negative bacteria. Yogurt also contains live bacteria and yeasts that are beneficial to the body, especially in the digestive system (probiotics).



3. Coconut oil: The medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) contained in coconut oil is responsible for its antibiotic properties. The two most potent triglycerides present in coconut oil are lauric and caprylic acid. Coconut oil is a good remedy for skin infections which include eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis. Virgin coconut oil (unadulterated) shows more antibiotic benefits.



4. Garlic: Garlic is commonly used as a spice that adds flavor to food. It a very strong natural antibiotic. It has an active ingredient known as allicin which is responsible for its antibacterial properties. Allicin is released when garlic is chewed or chopped. Although garlic is generally safe to ingest, it must be taken at a dose recommended by a health care provider. There is a risk of internal bleeding if taken at a large dose.



5. Ginger: Ginger is also a well know kitchen spice that adds flavor to food. It is also a natural antibiotic. It is used as a home remedy for throat infections. Chewing on raw ginger or sucking its juice can treat cough as it kills the bacteria causing the infection.



6. Turmeric (Curcumin): Turmeric is a member of the ginger family. It is a spice with antibiotic benefits. It gives yellow coloring to food when used. The active ingredient curcumin found its root is the antibiotic agent.



These are not to replace the use of antibiotic medication. These foods are common in our everyday life. As we eat or use them to cook, they strengthen our immune system in one way or the other. If one must use them as natural antibiotics, it should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

References

1. National Today. 2020. WORLD ANTIBIOTIC AWARENESS WEEK - November 11-17, 2020 | National Today. [online] Available at: [Accessed 14 November 2020].
2. Millard, E., and Kelly Kennedy, R., 2020. 7 Foods That Fight Back: Immune System Boosters | Everyday Health. [online] EverydayHealth.com. Available at: [Accessed 14 November 2020].
3. NDTV Food. 2020. 7 Foods That Fight Bacteria And Kill Germs Naturally. [online] Available at: [Accessed 14 November 2020].
4. Healthline. 2020. What Are The Most Effective Natural Antibiotics?. [online] Available at: [Accessed 14 November 2020].
5. Healthy and Natural World. 2020. 13 Natural Antiviral And Antibacterial Foods To Consume Right Now (Science Based). [online] Available at: [Accessed 14 November 2020].
6. MDLinx. 2020. 7 Foods With Antibacterial Properties. [online] Available at: [Accessed 14 November 2020].