Zingiber officinale, also known as the root more commonly known as ginger, has been dug up from the beginning of time for its therapeutic qualities and spicy flavor. However, something's age alone does not guarantee that it will benefit your health. In addition to a healthy diet, moderate exercise, and doctor visits, ginger should be used.
The Potential Health Benefits of Ginger:
It can support your immune system.
You're probably familiar with ginger's signature spicy, pungent fragrance and flavor. That's because gingerol, a substance with antioxidant capabilities to enhance your immunity, is to blame. Try making a salad dressing with ginger or drinking ginger tea to gain immediate health benefits.
It can reduce your risk of diabetes.
10.5 percent of people in this country had diabetes in 2018, making it a serious issue. Additionally, the American Diabetes Association reports that the condition affects Black Americans, Native Americans, and Alaskan Natives at higher than usual rates. Researchers have connected some of ginger's active ingredients to benefits in insulin and metabolism. Despite this, if you have diabetes, adding extra to sweet gingerbread cookies won't help. To flavor vegetable-filled soups, stir-fries, and smoothies, keep both fresh and dried ginger on hand. While drying ginger, certain advantageous chemical components are increased while some detrimental ones are decreased.
It's a natural way to get rid of period pain.
According to studies on ginger's pain-relieving properties, it is very good at easing menstrual pain. Ginger tea might make you feel better around that time of the month. However, if you frequently take acetaminophen or ibuprofen, it might not work as well for you. Consult your doctor before taking any supplement, whether it be an extract or a pill, as it might interact with other medications you're on.
It's an anti-inflammatory.
Ginger contains phytonutrients, which are similar to antioxidants and may minimize cell damage. These nutrients are found in a variety of foods, including fruits and vegetables, nuts, seeds, beans, and whole grains. The core cause of inflammation can also be eradicated by reducing cell signaling activity. Given this, adding ginger to meals that are already nutritious and healthy is the key to releasing those qualities.
It can settle an upset stomach.
For a very long time, ginger was thought to help with mild gastrointestinal problems. In fact, studies have shown that ginger has a multitude of digestive benefits, especially since it affects the parts of the GI system responsible for nausea, upset stomach, and vomiting. It could also help move food from the stomach to the small intestine for processing and absorption. However, ginger cannot cure eating harmful substances or stop food poisoning, so if you believe you may require immediate medical attention, call your doctor right away.
It can also curb morning sickness.
Speaking of stomach disturbance, pregnant women in particular should be aware that ginger may help lessen morning sickness symptoms! According to research, ginger is safe and beneficial during pregnancy, and when compared to a placebo, it does help with some symptom relief. In a 2018 study, pregnant women who consumed 1g of fresh ginger root everyday for four days experienced much less morning sickness and vomiting with no negative effects on the mother or the unborn child.
Read Also: 6 Health Benefits of Banana.
It may help prevent heart disease.
The anti-inflammatory properties of ginger may help reduce the risk of acquiring chronic diseases. A 2019 analysis discovered that ginger helps lower blood pressure and lower blood lipid (fat) levels, both of which assist prevent heart disease. A 2016 evaluation also identified a correlation between frequent ginger intake and lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels when compared to a placebo. But just with diabetes, a diet high in added sugar and saturated fat cannot be made up for by consuming ginger. To lower your risk, you'll still need to eat more vegetables, 100% whole grains, lean proteins, seafood, lentils, and beans.