The Surprising 30 Reasons You Should Be Eating (or Drinking) More Ginger
Ginger is an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune booster that has been shown to inhibit the growth of cancer cells in animal studies. Ginger also reduces nausea caused by chemotherapy treatments.
For centuries, ginger root has been used as a natural remedy for many ailments including colds, headaches, motion sickness, and menstrual pain.
Ginger contains natural anti-inflammatory qualities which help with nausea, heartburn, and stomach pain. Pregnant mothers should take care to eat more ginger because it will keep them from getting morning sickness!
The elderly will benefit from eating more ginger since it helps boost their immune systems and ward off colds and flu.
Teenagers shouldn’t neglect this powerful root either! Ginger boosts energy levels while helping fight acne breakouts too!
Ginger should be a staple in your kitchen cupboard and fridge! Ginger not only tastes great but has so many health benefits too!
It’s time you stocked up on ginger, add it to your daily meals, and reap all the benefits it provides. Most people don’t realize how good ginger truly is because they’ve never tasted a fresh, organic product!
If you’re craving a sweet and spicy beverage that is naturally healthy for your body then ginger tea or fresh-brewed ginger ale may just be the solution you’ve been searching for!
There’s no need to compromise your health with all the sugar and additives in carbonated drinks. Start drinking your ginger tea for a delicious drink that will actually leave you feeling better!
Here are the amazing benefits of this wonder spice.
1. Ginger helps with nausea and motion sickness
Motion sickness refers to the unpleasant symptoms people experience when riding in vehicles or boats if they are not well balanced or stationary. It is caused due to poor balance between the motions of your eye muscles and inner ear. Motion sickness can start as soon as you enter the moving vehicle and worsen to vomiting or even fainting.
Nausea during pregnancy and travel sickness go hand-in-hand like peanut butter & jelly — without one there’s no other! There are many different remedies for both but the ginger root is known as one of the best natural options out there!
Nausea is a common condition that occurs when the stomach senses something disagreeable. When nausea hits, it can be debilitating and make life difficult for the sufferer. Ginger has been proven to help with nausea whether it’s from morning sickness or motion sickness.
Nausea typically begins around the fourth week into a woman’s pregnancy, although each woman experiences morning sickness differently, with some women saying they have never felt sick at all while others say they were sick every day of their pregnancies. Although this stage of nausea is uncomfortable for many women, it usually subsides by week 14–16.
23 Ways ginger can alleviate nausea and motion sickness
1) Eat some crushed ginger in your food. This helps with digestion and reduces nausea
2) Drink some ginger tea (with honey if you like!). This helps settle an upset stomach and may reduce feelings of nausea.
3) Chew on some fresh ginger root. Chewing on raw ginger will stimulate saliva production which should ease feelings of nausea
4) Make a simple syrup by boiling 1 part grated fresh ginger with 2 parts sugar into a thick syrup until it’s reduced by half.
5) Use ginger as an infusion — Put some freshly grated ginger in hot water and let it steep for 10 minutes. Strain the tea to remove the pieces of ginger. Add honey or lemon if you like! Drink this tea all day long to ease nausea.
6) Drink some fresh ginger juice before traveling in order to prevent morning sickness from starting up again after your flight/car ride is over.
7) Take a few pieces of raw ginger when you’re feeling queasy to stop it in its tracks.
8) Add it to your soup or tea when you’re experiencing stomach pain caused by gas or cramps.
9) Make yourself into an invigorating ginger tea beverage by adding ginger to your tea. The properties of ginger will help settle an upset stomach and reduce feelings of nausea.
10) Chew on a piece of fresh ginger when you feel nauseous, or if you have heartburn (sometimes known as acid reflux).
11) Drink 2 cups of ginger tea daily for 3 months for relief from morning sickness.
12) Chew on crystallized ginger when traveling by plane, train, or bus to relieve your symptoms.
13) Add grated fresh ginger to foods like stir-fries and curries that are known to cause nausea in some people.
14) You can also drink ginger tea in the morning to help with nausea that may be caused by your menstrual cycle or pregnancy.
15) If you’re feeling nauseous during your period, try a ginger supplement instead of reaching for an over-the-counter pill.
16) Grate 4 ounces of fresh ginger and add it to a pan of boiling water and simmer for 5 minutes. Strain the ginger tea into cups through cheesecloth, and sweeten it with honey if desired. Drink the tea whenever needed.
17) Take powdered ginger in capsules form to help settle an upset stomach before it starts or if you’re already experiencing nausea. Make sure the powder is pure with no additives.
18) Use a ginger paste to help relieve nausea caused by motion sickness. You can make your own or you can buy it over the counter at a health food store.
19) Take 1/2 teaspoon of powdered ginger root every day for 3 days when suffering from morning sickness so that you don’t experience nausea during your menstrual cycle.
20) For a quick ginger fix, keep crystallized ginger candies in your purse or car for nausea relief on the go.
21) Ginger is also useful in treating dysentery as it helps to restore balance to the digestive system.
22) Chewing with fresh ginger root may reduce feelings of nausea and motion sickness.
23) Ginger can help to reduce heartburn symptoms by reducing stomach acid secretion and therefore inhibiting the enzyme responsible for enlarging the stomach.
Caution: Do not use ginger if you have a gallbladder disorder or stones. Ginger may slow your blood clotting so it’s advisable to avoid taking ginger supplements before surgery. If you are pregnant (or planning on becoming pregnant) please consult your physician and pharmacist before using any herbal remedies.
2. Ginger is a natural painkiller
Ginger has been used for centuries as a natural painkiller. It is often found in food and drinks, but many people don’t know that it can also be taken as an herbal supplement to relieve aches and pains.
It is a natural alternative to over-the-counter drugs and prescription medications. Ginger can be eaten, taken as an extract, or made into tea.
It’s been found to be more effective than acetaminophen and ibuprofen for treating arthritis, muscle soreness after exercise, and headaches.
Ginger has been used for thousands of years to relieve symptoms associated with the menstrual cycle, such as nausea, cramps, bloating, and fatigue. Additionally, it helps lessen the severity of period-related pain by relieving inflammation in your uterus.
Research shows that ginger has significant analgesic properties. Studies have also found that while using 1000 mg of ginger per day may provide pain relief for osteoarthritis patients, a combination of 1500 mg ginger plus 750 mg of capsaicin — the compound responsible for spicy food’s “hot” sensation — was even more effective at reducing symptoms such as joint swelling and soreness.
6 Ways to use ginger as a natural painkiller
1) You can eat it raw by grating fresh ginger root in your food or drink.
2) You could also take it as an extract that you dissolve under the tongue.
3) As mentioned before, making ginger into tea is another way of taking it; you could make this with boiling water and then add honey if desired.
4) There are many different kinds of ginger pills available online.
5) If you want to use some kind of external application on your skin, there is a ginger cream that you can buy online.
6) You can take ginger supplements to help relieve pain from arthritis, muscle soreness, menstrual cramps, headaches, and more!
3. Ginger boosts your immune system
One of the most powerful natural remedies for boosting your immune system is ginger. By helping you produce white blood cells that fight off infection, ginger helps boost your immune system.
Ginger contains natural compounds that have been proven to stimulate the production of white blood cells which are essential for fighting off illness and disease.
White blood cells create antibodies to attack foreign invaders by destroying them with chemicals like hydrogen peroxide or killer T-cells, both of which are made from substances found naturally in ginger roots.
4. Promotes better digestion
Ginger is a natural digestive aid. Ginger promotes better digestion by stimulating stomach enzymes, which help with the breakdown of food. This helps prevent bloating, gas, and indigestion.
The compound gingerol in ginger is a strong anti-inflammatory agent that reduces nausea and makes you feel better.
Ginger improves digestion with its antispasmodic properties, which relieves stomach pain and cramping that may hinder one’s ability to eat healthy foods
Ginger contains an enzyme called gingerase, which helps to break down protein, fat, and starch into simple sugars for the body to absorb and use for energy. The natural anti-inflammatory properties of ginger also help with nausea, heartburn, or other digestive issues caused by inflammation in the gut wall.
How ginger helps with better digestion
1) Ginger aids in preventing nausea and vomiting during pregnancy by soothing the stomach lining, which may be helpful for morning sickness.
2) It also helps to flush out the bowels, easing constipation and diarrhea when taken in tea form or as a supplement.
2) Ginger contains nutrients such as Vitamin C, magnesium, and potassium which are all important for healthy digestion.
4) Ginger helps relieve gas (flatulence), bloating, and cramping by increasing gastric emptying time of food from your stomach into your intestines where it will fully digest more effectively!
5) Ginger stimulates saliva production which helps to relieve nausea and vomiting.
6) Ginger in capsule and tea form can be a great way to combat motion sickness, morning sickness, as well as sea or air sickness!
5. Ginger keeps cancer at bay
Ginger contains two cancer-fighting compounds called zerumbone and 6-gingerol which have strong anti-tumor effects.
Zerumbone helps stop tumor growth by slowing down cell regeneration. This inhibits the blood flow to a particular area of your body where cancer cells are being generated. It also increases natural killer cell activity that fights disease as well as stimulates the immune system.
Meanwhile, 6-gingerol is believed to be a potent antioxidant that can reduce the risk of cancer by neutralizing free radicals.
A study conducted at the Chinese University in Hong Kong showed that ginger may be an effective natural treatment for ovarian cancer because it contains 6-gingerol which has anti-tumor qualities.
The gingerol found in ginger is an antioxidant that may help prevent cancer cells from growing and spreading. In the journal Planta Medica, it was found that when ginger extract was used on colon cancer cells in vitro, there were significant growth inhibitions and death of cancer cells.
Scientists also found that certain enzymes inhibit the formation or action of carcinogens which would help prevent tumor development as well as stop the spread of existing tumors.
A 2012 study published in the Journal of Biomedicine & Biotechnology revealed that ginger helped kill 78 percent of the leukemia cells tested. This suggests ginger can have a significant therapeutic value in cancer treatment.
Another study in 2008 by the Journal of Cancer Prevention found that ginger had the ability to stop metastasis of breast cancer cells, which translates to a lower mortality rate of patients with this condition.
A study published in 2002 in the Journal for Medicinal Food discovered that ginger helped inhibit angiogenesis or the formation of new blood vessels that bring nutrients to abnormal growth. This was significant in the study because angiogenesis is crucial for cancerous tumors since they thrive on oxygen and nutrients from the bloodstream.
The antioxidants in ginger can also help prevent DNA damage, which could otherwise lead to cancer.
Lycopene, found in tomatoes, broccoli, and watermelon, has been shown to inhibit the formation of blood vessels that feed cancer cells. Gingerol, another compound found in ginger root, is also being considered as an anti-cancer agent due to its ability to reduce tumor growth and mortality rates in breast cancer patients.
Ginger root contains antioxidant compounds such as beta-carotene, vitamin C, and zinc. Some studies have shown that these compounds have anti-cancer properties while other research suggests that they may help improve immune function by reducing inflammation associated with autoimmune disorders — both of which can significantly reduce your risk for developing some forms of cancer.
Research published in the International Journal of Cancer found that ginger extract may be a potential therapeutic treatment for prostate cancer.
Ginger has also been shown to improve response rates and prolong survival time in patients suffering from ovarian cancer, some forms of breast cancer, and more.
Note: Keep in mind that there are many factors that determine whether or not a person develops cancer, and only certain types of “cancer” can be prevented through diet alone.
For example, while studies have found that populations with higher intakes of cruciferous vegetables like broccoli (which contains high levels of glucosinolates) had lower rates of all-cause mortality and development of lung, pancreas, stomach, and colorectal cancers compared to those with lower intakes, the most potent cancer prevention methods involve identifying your optimal diet and lifestyle, then taking action to remove yourself from exposure to known carcinogens like personal care products, hormone-disrupting foods and more.
8 Real reasons why ginger is anti-cancer
1) Ginger has been shown to reduce the risk of stomach, colon, ovarian, breast, prostate, and pancreatic cancers.
2) It contains cancer-fighting compounds like gingerols that have been shown to slow tumor growth in some cases.
3) The essential oils found in ginger have antioxidant properties that help to protect cells from free radical damage which can lead to cancer formation as well as aid in the prevention of cancer cell proliferation.
4) Ginger stimulates digestive enzymes which aid digestion and reduce inflammation caused by ulcers.
5) Research shows that people who consume more ginger have a reduced risk of cancer.
6) It has been shown to help prevent tumor formation and growth in the lungs, liver, skin, colon, stomach, intestine, and even certain types of leukemia.
7) Ginger can also stop gastrointestinal bleeding by contracting muscles in the digestive tract that cause vomiting or diarrhea and can treat nausea associated with chemotherapy.
8) Ginger contains a chemical called gingerol that deactivates cyclooxygenase 2 which is linked to inflammation, pain, and even cancer.
6. Boosts circulation
Ginger boosts circulation by helping blood flow through vessels more freely, while also reducing clotting time and platelet aggregation (this makes it easier for blood cells to reach wounds)
One of the great benefits of ginger is that it can increase your blood circulation and improve the flow of oxygen to all parts of your body, including your brain. This will give you more energy and help keep you feeling refreshed during long days at work or school!
In men with erectile dysfunction, ginger improved penile blood flow and sexual function.
In rats with heart disease, ginger extract reduced the blockage of blood vessels. A similar study has also found that ginger reduced overall vascular resistance in rats [R]. This means that it improves blood flow.
7. Decreases allergic reactions
Ginger decreases allergic reactions by inhibiting the activation of mast cells and basophils. Antihistamines only work after the reaction has already begun. Mast cells are immune system elements that mediate allergic reactions. They release pro-inflammatory substances such as histamine, serotonin, proteoglycans, leukotrienes, cytokines in response to allergens or irritants in the environment
However, studies have shown that ginger inhibits histamine release by directly acting as an inhibitor on H1 receptors on mast cells and basophils. Thus displaying anti-allergic effects.
Proteoglycans are glycosaminoglycans (including chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronic acid) in connective tissues that promote inflammation and degradation of cartilage.
Leukotrienes are inflammatory mediators that induce bronchoconstriction in patients with asthma and other respiratory conditions.
As ginger acts as an inhibitor of leukotriene synthesis, it is able to control asthma symptoms. Cytokines are inflammatory mediators that induce inflammation, which is what most allergic reactions are mediated by.
Research has shown that ginger inhibits the release of cytokines such as IL-12 and TNF-α, both involved in the immune response, from activated T cells.
There is also evidence that ginger can decrease IgE (immunoglobulin E), a type of antibody associated with allergic responses like asthma and allergies to stinging insects or pollen by inhibiting calcium influx through phospholipase C (PLC) in mast cells. It can inhibit this influx indirectly by increasing intracellular cAMP levels.
By decreasing IgE production, it may be able to prevent anaphylaxis; thus, being an effective treatment for pre-existing allergies, as well as a preventative measure. This inhibition of IgE is unique to ginger among other herbs commonly used against allergic reactions.
8. Improves male fertility
Ginger promotes healthy sperm production by improving hormonal function within the body and also preventing oxidative stress of the sperm cell membranes. Hormonal balance in both men and women is vital for successful conception because both sex cells need to be viable in order for fertilization to take place properly. Oxidative stress and the free radical cascade will damage both viable cells.
Conducted by the Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Khartoum (Khartoum, Sudan), researchers observed healthy male albino rats that were exposed to ginger extract for 90 days; they found that ginger increased sperm count and motility significantly.
In a separate study by the University of Malaya (Kuala Lumpur), researchers found that ginger-derived compounds prevented oxidative stress in sperm cells.
Researchers from the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University (Cairo, Egypt) treated 10 healthy male volunteers aged 21 to 25 years with 500 milligrams (mg) of ginger extract per day, over the course of one month. They found that ginger increased sperm count and motility in each subject.
Researchers from the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University (Cairo), observed the effect of ginger on testosterone levels in men with idiopathic infertility — a condition where the cause of infertility cannot be determined and that accounts for 25% to 40% of male infertility cases.
Additionally, the same researchers found ginger increased sperm count by 34%, while no change was observed in either control or placebo groups.
9. Helps with menstrual pain
Ginger relieves menstrual pain naturally. It helps in reducing cramps, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue during menstruation.
Ginger reduces the production of prostaglandin, which is a chemical produced by the body that contributes to pain and inflammation during menstruation.
Ginger also increases serotonin levels that help relieve mood-related symptoms like depression and anxiety while regulating hormone secretion.
10. Helps with morning sickness
Morning sickness is one of the most common pregnancy symptoms. This can be quite uncomfortable for many women around 9 months into their pregnancy period. It becomes even worse when combined with extreme exhaustion, dizziness, and headaches as well as severe nausea or vomiting.
Ginger also helps relieve nausea from chemotherapy, HIV/AIDS, and depression.
Ginger has digestive enzymes such as gingerol, shogaol, and zingiberene that have been found to be beneficial in easing morning sickness associated with pregnancy.
A study published in the Journal of Perinatal Medicine showed that women who suffered from severe morning sickness were given an infusion containing gingerol, a powerful anti-nausea agent contained in ginger root. The results showed that over 70% of the women reported an improvement in their symptoms.
11. Improves skin health
Ginger improves skin health by increasing circulation, stimulating oil glands, and improving blood flow. Ginger is also good at exfoliating dead skin cells and removing excess facial oils. It helps in brightening discoloration of the face and lightens sunspots.
It improves skin elasticity as well as making it look more firm, supple and youthful. Ginger contains antibacterial properties which are known to reduce inflammation on your skin.
12. Acts as a digestive aid
Ginger has great benefits for digestive health. It can help improve sluggish digestion, aids weight loss by boosting metabolism, and relieves gas, bloating, constipation, and indigestion/
You can consume raw ginger or take ginger supplements to alleviate indigestion, upset stomach, and nausea during pregnancy.
Ginger is an expectorant. It promotes the secretion of gastric juices which are helpful for digestion and removal of the undigested particles from the food. Ginger also helps kill infections in your body by increasing blood flow to infected areas thus accelerating healing and recovery.
13. Helps with constipation
Ginger is a great natural remedy for relieving constipation and improving bowel movements. It stimulates gut contractions, improves blood circulation to your digestive tract, helps relieve gas and bloating as well as reduces inflammation in the intestinal lining which supports healthy digestion. Some people find it helpful to add one teaspoon of freshly grated ginger root to their morning green smoothie or warm water along with lemon juice and stevia for better results.
14. Promotes heart health
Ginger’s rich supply of antioxidants has been linked to improvements in heart health. It’s also been found that ginger can help lower cholesterol levels, triglycerides, and even insulin resistance.
Studies have shown that ginger has a powerful effect on cardiovascular problems such as high blood pressure, angina, arrhythmia, and other complications associated with diabetes.
The active ingredients in ginger have been shown to reduce plasma lipids and weight, potentially preventing coronary artery disease among patients with hyperlipidemia.
Additionally, it helps prevent the buildup of plaque in your arteries which may reduce the risk of atherosclerosis, leading to decreased chances of stroke or heart attack.
Ginger has also been proven to help lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. It works by relaxing blood vessels in your body while increasing blood flow by effectively thinning the blood.
This helps ease chest pain, prevent clotting, and improves overall circulation…all very powerful ways to help you combat cardiovascular diseases (coronary artery disease).
Take 1 inch of peeled ginger (or slice up a tiny bit if using the dried powdered form) and boil it in water for 15 minutes; allow the liquid to cool down before using it as a drink. Drink this every day as needed (usually twice per day). You can also add this liquid into soups, broths, stews, and even teas or coffees for additional health benefits.
15. Helps with depression symptoms
Ginger is filled with compounds called phytochemicals which are potent antioxidants and anti-inflammatory nutrients beneficial for mental health. Phytochemicals present in ginger help combat depression by boosting serotonin levels in your brain.
Ginger has also been linked to lower levels of cortisol, a stress hormone known to have mood-altering effects.
Studies have shown that ginger can help alleviate symptoms and improve the overall well-being of individuals suffering from depression.
16. Ginger could help prevent tooth decay
Ginger helps to prevent tooth decay by preventing the growth of bacteria and plaque on teeth. You can chew a small piece of ginger after meals to help reduce cavities, bad breath, and toothaches.
Ginger has been shown to have antibacterial properties that help fight tooth decay. It also contains active compounds called gingerols which act as powerful antioxidants to protect the enamel of your teeth, preventing bacterial accumulation, as well as reducing inflammation in the gums and mouth, which can aid in ear infections affecting children.
17. Helps relieve headaches and migraines
Studies have shown that consuming a few grams of ginger every day can significantly alleviate migraine headaches. Ginger contains compounds called gingerols which are natural blood thinners that allow more blood to flow into the brain.
This increases oxygenation to the brain helping you feel less headache pain during a migraine attack.
You can drink fresh ginger tea, add some ginger to your green smoothie or make a fresh raw vegetable juice with ginger. To prepare the tea, simply slice an inch-size piece of ginger with skin and place it in a mug of hot water for about 10 minutes.
18. Helps prevent arteriosclerosis
Ginger contains potent anti-inflammatory compounds called gingerols. These compounds can neutralize harmful free radicals that damage the inner lining of your blood vessels. Arteriosclerosis is a condition characterized by inflammation in your arteries. Over time, inflammation can turn into plaque and may eventually stop blood flow through these vessels.
19. Helps to relieve postpartum pain
Women are most likely to experience severe back pain during or after pregnancy. Ginger is a natural remedy traditionally used to alleviate this condition. Studies have shown that consuming roughly one gram of powdered ginger every day can help ease backache, abdominal cramps, and other discomforts associated with childbirth, including postpartum depression.
The reason why ginger helps relieve these symptoms is probably due to its ability to relax tense muscles and relieve inflammation. The anti-inflammatory compounds called gingerols present in ginger also act as pain-relieving agents.
20. Helps treat diarrhea
Ginger is commonly used as a natural remedy for treating mild diarrhea. Research shows that ginger can help control your bowel movements by stimulating smooth muscle contractions in the digestive tract. It also helps reduce nausea and vomiting associated with abdominal pain and discomfort due to diarrhea, thereby reducing these symptoms as well.
21. Boosts immune system
Ginger contains potent antioxidant compounds called gingerols which have been shown to stimulate production of T-lymphocytes, or white blood cells that are responsible for fighting disease. Ginger also stimulates antibody production and increases macrophage activity, additional measures that promote good overall health.
22. Reduces inflammation
It’s often said that “inflammation is the root cause of many chronic illnesses” — and ginger is one potent anti-inflammatory remedy! Ginger also helps reduce swelling, soothes joint pain, and improves circulation- all factors that contribute to healthy inflammation levels.
Ginger reduces inflammation in the human body by lowering the levels of inflammatory mediators in your body such as cytokines and adhesion molecules.
Ginger can help to reduce inflammation associated with a variety of conditions, including arthritis, autoimmune disorders, anorexia, cancer, and more.
A 2001 study published in the Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology reported that ginger exhibits excellent anti-inflammatory properties.
Researchers noted that it works as well for reducing inflammation as steroidal drugs, but with fewer side effects The study further stated that ginger can treat a wide range of inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or irritable bowel syndrome.
In a 2010 study led by researchers at the Center for Complementary Medicine in Kazakhstan, ginger was shown to have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and pain. Inflammation is at the root of many chronic health conditions, so reducing it can make all the difference between feeling great or dragging yourself around like an old man or woman.
Ginger contains active compounds like gingerols and shogaols which help inhibit inflammatory enzymes (COX-1 and COX-2), thereby reducing pain and swelling commonly experienced with arthritis — a common condition that can cause joint inflammation. 6-Gingerol has been found to possess anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities
Study results show that when using ginger for pain relief, patients required fewer pharmaceuticals like Tylenol and Advil to manage their discomfort.
And better yet? The natural alternative worked faster, without any of the negative side effects.
23. Rich in Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant used by your body to boost immunity, build strong bones, treat acne, improve blood flow and fight against aging skin among many other things.
Ginger contains 17 times as much vitamin C than an orange. Use fresh ginger juice as a face mask on a regular basis or eat it raw for best results. You can also add some grated ginger to your smoothie for a dose of immunity-boosting vitamin C.
24. Lowers Cholesterol
A 2006 study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine revealed that people who took 3 grams of fresh ginger daily or used 0.5 gram concentrated powdered ginger extract had reduced total cholesterol levels by 10% and lowered LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol by 15% after 45 days. While the exact mechanism is not fully understood by researchers, they believe that ginger root inhibits an enzyme called HMG-CoA reductase which reduces cholesterol.
25. Helps prevent bone loss
Ginger contains powerful antioxidants which are helpful for building strong bones and preventing osteoporosis by protecting against oxidative damage that leads to bone degradation.
Ginger can also help stimulate the absorption of calcium and magnesium in our bodies, which prevents bone loss. It’s not surprising that studies show consuming as little as a half-teaspoon of ginger a day may be helpful for improving bone density.
26. Protects against Alzheimer’s disease
Ginger contains anti-inflammatory compounds like zingiberene, gingerols, shogaols, and parasols, which are all believed to help prevent Alzheimer’s disease. These compounds are thought to have neuroprotective properties along with their ability to inhibit beta-amyloid plaque formation in the brain.
Some research has shown a link between ginger consumption and reduced memory impairment caused by aluminum poisoning.
While more research needs to be done in this area, ginger may ultimately prove to be a neuroprotective agent and an effective treatment for preventing Alzheimer’s disease.
27. Anti-parasitic/Anti-protozoal
Of all the different types of infections, protozoal infections are the most common occurring in humans. Anyone with parasitic or fungal infections will benefit from ginger extract as it has been shown to be effective against many intestinal parasites and bacteria that cause diarrhea.
Ginger is also an anti-inflammatory agent which makes it useful for soothing pain associated with parasitic flare-ups. Studies have found that ginger root extract may be a potential treatment for amoebiasis and giardiasis.
The University of Maryland Medical Center studies show that ginger has anti-parasitic activity against intestinal worms, including roundworms and tapeworms. Ginger powder is widely used by veterinarians as a preventive measure against intestinal worms in dogs and cats.
Drugs containing powdered ginger are available in human health food stores. Scientists think it works because [ginger] contains chemicals (gingerols) that have an antispasmodic action on smooth muscles of the intestine.”
28. Fights common colds
As with other spicy foods, ginger has long been hailed for its many health benefits — but this one is purely anecdotal.
As reported by the Seattle Times: “Anecdotal reports and limited research suggest that ginger will ease symptoms of a cold, including nasal congestion, runny nose, and sore throat, and might even shorten the duration of illness
Several studies have found that people who eat more fruits and vegetables — which contain natural anti-inflammatory chemicals called flavonoids — have a reduced risk for certain types of cancer.
In addition to its anti-inflammatory benefits, ginger is loaded with antioxidants known as beta carotene, citric acid, alpha terpinolene, camphene, limonene, shogaol, zingiberene, and gingerols. These nutrients help absorb toxins from your body so that they can be flushed out naturally.
29. Ginger helps control type 2 diabetes
Ginger has been proven to help control type 2 diabetes, and its health benefits are praised by nutritionists. It helps to improve blood sugar levels after eating food that contains carbohydrates. Ginger extract may provide support for the potential benefits of ginger and its pungent components to help prevent and manage hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) or type 2 diabetes.
People with type 2 diabetes have high blood glucose levels and your body does not produce enough insulin or the body is unable to use insulin properly. Fortunately for them, ginger extracts have been scientifically proven to exhibit anti-diabetic potential.
This makes you feel very thirsty, hungry, or dehydrated; it also makes you tired when exercising (diabetics can tire more quickly than others).
Eating a banana will help greatly in lowering the risk of developing type 2 diabetes; pair it with some ginger for an even greater effect!
2 medium bananas + 1 inch piece of ginger root
Juice all ingredients and drink this fresh juice at least once daily. You can also store the remainder in the refrigerator and drink it up to once a day for additional health benefits.
Studies show that ginger, by itself, can control type 2 diabetes. It contains natural compounds that can help decrease the levels of glucose in your blood, and stop or slow its absorption.
Ginger also stimulates the liver to increase production of a sugar processing enzyme called glycogen synthase. This helps to prevent spikes in blood glucose levels after a meal, which lower overall levels of sugar in the body.
If you suffer from type 2 diabetes, you can add ginger to your diet. It may help prevent the need for medication.
30. Ginger helps protect the liver & gallbladder
Ginger is an amazing herb and works wonders in protecting your liver, as well as your gallbladder! It helps flush out harmful toxins from your body safely.
These organs are responsible for breaking down nutrients and metabolizing the fats that you eat so that these nutrients can be absorbed into the bloodstream by cells throughout your body.
When these processes become impaired due to liver or gallbladder disease or injury, there will be a deficiency of healthy fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K which are necessary for good health (especially LDL cholesterol). And ginger helps keep all this in check!
Drink 2–3 cups of tea made from the juice of fresh ginger root daily to help liver ailments.
How to get the most out of your ginger
To get the most out of your ginger root, always try to purchase it whole and peel it yourself.
Ginger can be found in many grocery stores as well as at health food stores. When purchasing your ginger root, make sure to look for the freshness of the root.
Make sure that no light can touch the ginger, which means if it’s under a protective plastic wrap. Make sure there is not an opening at the top or bottom. It should feel heavy in weight and have an earthy aroma.
A good way to test whether your ginger is fresh enough is by smelling it. If you can smell a spicy odor, the ginger is fresh enough to be used.
If you are just using the root for cooking purposes, you can store your ginger in a cool and dark place. However, if you plan on consuming the pieces of the root as well (such as by juicing), make sure to wrap the pieces in plastic wrap or place the root into a baggie so that it stays fresh.
9 Authentic ways to use ginger
-Add some grated fresh ginger to your green smoothie recipe.
-Dissolve 2 tablespoons of ground ginger into warm water before drinking it as tea.
-Use freshly grated ginger in stir-fries and curries instead of garlic or onions.
-Grind up 1 teaspoon dried powdered ginger root (or add freshly grated) to your smoothie.
-Make gingerbread cookies and muffins with freshly grated ginger.
-Grate some fresh ginger on top of a plate or bowl before serving rice dishes or sushi!
-Add a few slices of fresh ginger to a cup full of water, let it steep for 5 minutes, and drink it as tea.
-Take 1 inch of ginger root (peeled) and boil it in water for 15 minutes; allow the liquid to cool down before using it as a drink.
-Ginger tea can also be used as a base when preparing teas for the treatment of various ailments. It’s best to consume ginger on an empty stomach rather than with heavy meals since it may upset your stomach.
What are the side effects of ginger?
Ginger is an herb that has been used for centuries to treat stomach ailments. Ginger can be found in many different forms, including ginger tea, ginger ale, and crystallized ginger.
However, there are also some side effects of taking too much ginger that should be taken into account before gobbling up a whole tray of cookies made with fresh ground ginger root.
Ginger is good for you in moderation but consuming over one ounce per day may cause the following side effects:
-heartburn or indigestion,
-upset stomach or nausea,
-diarrhea or constipation and increased menstrual flow if pregnant.
-dry mouth,
-low blood sugar levels,
-constipation, diarrhea, and increased gas production.
-It may also lead to dizziness and drowsiness when taken with other medications like sedatives and antidepressants as well as anticoagulants such as Warfarin.
As a general rule, medications should be taken two hours before or after a meal to avoid this side effect of ginger.
-Ginger may also interfere with the absorption of iron and calcium from foods so taking it at the same time as these vitamins could inhibit absorption.
The good news is that, like many other herbs, ginger is a safe way to help with stomach ailments when used in moderation. Its anti-inflammatory properties can also aid in the treatment of nausea or vomiting caused by motion sickness and morning sickness during pregnancy.
If you are pregnant and experiencing any of these symptoms, speak with your doctor before taking ginger as they will know which medications are best for you to take during your pregnancy.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should seek medical help immediately: if you have acute bronchitis or shortness of breath; swelling around your eyes along with difficulty seeing; rash, fever or unusual tiredness for more than three days since there may be a serious allergic reaction to ginger.
These side effects can be minimized by taking it with food or using smaller doses. Therefore, it should always be taken on an empty stomach with caution.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should seek medical help immediately:
-If you have acute bronchitis or shortness of breath;
-swelling around your eyes along with difficulty seeing;
-rash, fever, or unusual tiredness for more than three days since there may be a serious allergic reaction to ginger.
Warning: Some people are allergic to ginger. So, if you’re unsure whether you have a sensitivity to ginger, do your homework and check with your doctor before taking any supplements containing this ingredient.
Gingerol can cause the body’s immune system to produce IgE antibodies which may lead to an allergic reaction. Since it is also found in other popular foods, symptoms tend to be mild and include a dry mouth, difficulty swallowing or breathing, nasal congestion, vomiting, and diarrhea.
As with any treatment or remedy, get your doctor’s advice before taking ginger for cancer treatment.
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