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Ginger is one of those spices that are overflowing with health benefits. What’s more, it’s known to aid with almost everything – from blood sugar management to osteoarthritis. Nevertheless, regardless of how you enjoy ginger, it’s a great spice to have on hand. Below we’ve broken down just a few of the known health benefits.
Keep in mind that ginger interacts with certain drugs like warfarin and nifedipine, so if you’re on any prescription medications, it’s a good idea to check with your doctor before adding it to your diet.
7 Must-Know Health Benefits Of Ginger
1. Reduces Blood Sugar
A 2015 study from the Iranian Journal of Pharmaceutical Research found that ginger reduced blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. Although the study only looked at 41 participants, the results were pretty impressive.
Just two grams of ginger powder each day were able to reduce the participants’ blood sugar by an average of 12%.
2. Decreases Risk of Heart Disease
Although, the study above showed some promising results in terms of blood sugar, what’s even more impressive is its potential implications for heart disease.
Additionally, the researchers noted a 28% decline in their participants’ ApoB/ApoA-I ratio (a type of protein that controls our lipid metabolism and determines how our body breaks down and stores fat for energy). High levels of these proteins, however, have been correlated to heart disease and the fact that ginger was able to reduce these lipoproteins is extremely encouraging.
3. Diminishes Cholesterol Levels
The effects of ginger on lipoproteins have been well-documented, and this one double-blind study suggests that ginger reduces the lipids associated with high cholesterol.
Researchers found that participants who took three grams of ginger a day saw a far more significant reduction in LDL cholesterol and triglycerides than the placebo group did. A separate 2013 study revealed a similar outcome.
4. Prevents Alzheimer’s Disease
Research into this area is still ongoing, but numerous studies have already shown promising results. An animal study from 2014 concluded that ginger may contain anti-Alzheimer receptors that inhibit the kinds of inflammatory activity in the brain that leads to Alzheimer’s disease.
5. Subdues Nausea and Morning Sickness
Furthermore, in treating nausea ginger root has been the go to herb. Moreover, one study found that it may be as effective as prescription drugs when it comes to treating seasickness. Furthermore, a separate review of 12 independent studies found that ginger may be helpful in reducing morning sickness symptoms in pregnant women.
6. Alleviates Osteoarthritis
Uniquely, an active component found in ginger – gingerol is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. In one University of Miami study, gingerol has not only shown, to reduce knee pain in people living with osteoarthritis. But also, to the point of requiring less pain medication.
7. Reduces Risk of Infections
Moreover, gingerol has been the subject of numerous studies. It has demonstrated both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It may help lower the risk of infections. In like manner, it is also capable of fighting bacteria. Not to mention, when consumed regularly—may even lower a person’s risk factors for certain types of cancer.
Conversely, the health benefits of ginger are still subject to extensive research and debate. Although, for most people, it can make an excellent addition to a healthy lifestyle. Finally, try adding a couple of grams to your daily routine and see if you notice a difference.
by Yashwini Ravindranath
Born & raised in Malaysia, Yashwini earned her M.D. studying in Moscow's Russian National Research Medical University. With an affiliation towards research, all things coffee and the startup ecosystem, she now contributes articles to GetDocSays View all articles by Yashwini Ravindranath.
