by Indian cuisine is packed with some of the best ingredients loaded with the best nutrients. They offer many health benefits. Ginger is one of those centuries-old remedies that offers relief and support for your overall well-being. This humble root is a treasure trove of health benefits. From soothing effects on the stomach to powerful anti-inflammatory properties, ginger has multiple benefits you should know about.
Ginger is a type of plant in the Zingiberaceae family that offers many health benefits. It also has a strong, slightly sweet flavor. The plant is native to southern China and the rhizome, or root, of ginger is used in cooking and medicine in both fresh and dried form. Used for thousands of years for medicinal purposes, ginger is a powerful root that offers several health benefits.
Health Benefits of Ginger
Here are the health benefits of ginger you need to know:
1. Anti-inflammatory properties
Ginger contains bioactive compounds like gingerol, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. A study published in the journal Molecules found that ginger has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Adding it to your diet can help reduce inflammation and relieve conditions such as osteoarthritis. Several studies have shown positive effects in reducing pain and improving joint function in people with these conditions.
2. Aids Digestion
Have you been struggling with indigestion lately? You can add ginger to your diet. Studies have shown that ginger has long been used as a remedy for gastrointestinal problems. Studies have shown that ginger has a positive effect on the time it takes for a person to digest food. Adding ginger to your diet can also help you get rid of digestive issues such as abdominal pain, bloating, feeling full, nausea, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
3. Relieves menstrual pain
Painful periods can be common during irregular periods, but certain medical conditions like endometriosis can also cause the problem. Excessive pain that causes you to miss work or school could be due to a condition called dysmenorrhea. Several studies, including one published in the Taiwanese Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, have shown that ginger can help relieve dysmenorrhea.
4. Controls Cholesterol
Did you know that high cholesterol can increase your risk of developing heart disease? It is better to control your cholesterol level to avoid diseases. A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that ginger contains properties that reduce levels of “bad” LDL cholesterol. However, you should avoid consuming large doses of ginger.
5. May Lower Blood Sugar Levels
Ginger may even contain anti-diabetic properties that will help you lose weight. A study published in the Iranian Journal of Pharmaceutical Research found that people with type 2 diabetes who ate ginger daily noticed a significant reduction in their blood sugar levels. Studies have also shown that ginger helps improve insulin sensitivity and reduce diabetes-related complications.
6. Reduces the risk of heart disease
Including ginger in your diet helps you lower cholesterol levels, which can help reduce cardiovascular disease. Although studies have shown that consuming ginger may have positive effects on heart health, more studies are needed to confirm these effects.
7. May Have Anti-Cancer Properties
Some preliminary studies suggest that ginger may possess anti-cancer properties and inhibit the growth of certain cancer cells. A study published in the journal Gastroenterology found that ginger has anti-cancer properties. However, further research is essential to validate these findings and understand the mechanisms involved.
Although ginger is packed with many nutrients, it’s not a magic ingredient that will help prevent infection and disease. It is important to consult your doctor before including it in your diet, especially if you have an underlying disease. Also, you should always eat it in moderation to avoid complications.
