If you’re plagued by digestive issues, incorporating more ginger into your diet could provide some relief. This readily available root is known for its stomach-friendly properties, such as reducing bloating, gas, and inflammation.
Ginger has been a staple in traditional medicine for centuries and can be consumed in numerous ways.
Its health benefits are attributed to several compounds and chemicals it contains. These include shogaols and gingerols, which possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Gingerol
Gingerol, one of the key components of ginger, contributes significantly to its health benefits. It’s also responsible for the unique smell and taste associated with ginger and its derivatives.
Moreover, gingerol is a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant that can help neutralise free radicals in the body, which cause cell death. It may even alleviate symptoms of inflammatory diseases like ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.
A study highlighted that ginger can fight inflammatory diseases, including arthritis, and could potentially serve as an effective supplement for cancer prevention.
Shogaol
Much like its counterpart gingerol, Shogaol is a prevalent compound in ginger known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Research has suggested that it may enhance ginger’s effectiveness in alleviating nausea and vomiting in some individuals, as well as aiding in the treatment of inflammatory health conditions.
Incorporating ginger into your diet
Ginger is an incredibly versatile ingredient that can be added to a variety of foods and drinks to harness its health benefits. One simple method is grating fresh ginger into hot water or tea to create a soothing beverage.
Fresh ginger is a staple in Asian cuisine, making it a natural addition to dishes such as rice, curries, and noodles.
For those who aren’t fond of the taste of ginger, it can also be consumed as a supplement. However, bear in mind that the quality and dosage of ginger in supplements can vary, making this method less reliable.
Potential side effects of ginger
While generally safe to consume, ginger can cause some discomforting side effects in certain individuals. These may include heartburn, excessive burping, stomach discomfort, and skin irritation if applied topically via a cream or similar product.
Ginger may also potentially lower blood pressure in some people, so caution should be exercised if you’re on prescribed blood pressure medications.
Should you have any worries about incorporating ginger into your diet or making a significant dietary change, it’s advisable to first seek advice from your doctor or health specialist.
