10 scientifically proven reasons to consume ginger

10 scientifically proven reasons to consume ginger

Belonging to the root of the Zingiber plant, ginger has more than one trick up its sleeve. It was used by the Indians as well as the Romans as a remedy for many ailments thanks to its powerful medicinal properties. Let's take a closer look at its health benefits.

Very popular in many cultures and regions of the world like turmeric, ginger is recommended for improving digestion, providing vitality and energy, reducing nausea and fighting certain infections, among others. So here are the 10 most valuable benefits of this Asian rhizome.

1.It would act as an antioxidant

Fresh or dried, in powder, capsules, herbal tea or syrup, ginger has active ingredients and properties giving it the benefit of being an outstanding antioxidant and anti-inflammatory thanks to the gingerol it contains.

2.It would fight nausea and vomiting

The antiemetic effect of ginger has always been researched. Some studies have been able to prove that its consumption is effective in treating nausea and vomiting. Thus, it has been shown by randomized trials that the consumption of 1 g of ginger would be more effective than placebo in preventing postoperative nausea and vomiting.

3.It would improve digestion

Ginger is one of the spices whose function is to stimulate the secretion of bile and the action of various digestive enzymes, thereby allowing more active digestion, as stated in an article published by The Indian Journal of Medical Research.

4.It would have an anti-inflammatory action

Its anti-inflammatory action is recognized, thanks to its constituents such as gingerols, shogaols and paradols which are said to help reduce inflammation and pain, particularly those associated with arthritis in humans.

5.It would have an action on muscle pain

In people who exercise, ginger may gradually reduce muscle pain, as recommended in this study.

6.It would decrease fasting blood sugar

Scientists have shown that consuming 3 one-gram capsules of ginger powder for 8 weeks may lower fasting blood sugar in patients with type 2 diabetes by improving the index of insulin resistance.

7.It would reduce menstrual pain

The dysmenorrhea that most women suffer from is pain that occurs during the menstrual cycle. To relieve it, ginger would be of tremendous use as suggested by a study published by The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine.

8.It would decrease the cholesterol level

A high level of LDL lipoproteins, constitutes an increased risk of heart disease. To prevent its health consequences, a study states that consuming 3 grams of ginger significantly reduces cholesterol markers by having a lipid-lowering effect compared to placebo.

9.It would improve cognitive functions

The aging process may be accelerated by oxidative stress and chronic inflammation. Some studies suggest that the antioxidants and bioactive ingredients in ginger block inflammatory responses that occur in the brain.

10.It would fight infections

Due to its antibacterial effect, ginger has significant potential in the treatment of numerous microbial pathologies. Just as ginger would be effective against periodontal bacteria, as stated in this study, thanks to its antimicrobial and antifungal properties.

Caution

Ginger is not recommended for pregnant women due to its anticoagulant effect, as well as for people with blood diseases.