5 Health Benefits of Eating Ginger

Ginger is rich in health-promoting compounds like vitamin C, amino acids, and various trace minerals like calcium, zinc, sodium, phosphorus, and more.

Ginger has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for many ailments it is, in fact, regarded as one of the healthiest spices around! And one of the best ways to enjoy these benefits is by drinking a cup of ginger tea. Ginger may have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, and other healthful properties. Below are some of the possible medicinal uses of ginger.

* May soothe an upset stomach

Were you ever given ginger ale when you had an upset tummy as a kid? Or maybe someone gave you ginger tea to soothe your nausea or motion sickness? People have turned to ginger for its stomach-calming benefits since ancient Greek and Roman times. Modern science is in agreement. Research has shown that ginger can help to settle the stomach under a variety of circumstances, ranging from being sick to being pregnant. Many pregnant women enjoy ginger tea as a home remedy for morning sickness.

* Supports natural inflammatory response

Ginger is well-loved by dietitians and often included in their lists of “anti-inflammatory foods,” and for good reason. It contains the compound “gingerol” which is very effective at supporting your body’s natural anti-inflammation response. Ginger has also been found helpful in some instances of muscle pain. Do you ever experience muscle soreness or cramps after exercising? Ginger tea can help with that too, according to one study. What about menstrual discomfort? Another study showed that ginger root extract may support the management of menstrual discomfort.

* May support digestion

If you ever suffer from any digestive distress, such as upset stomach, indigestion, heartburn or bloating, you may want to try ginger tea. Ginger actually stimulates the muscles of your intestines. This is also known as digestive motility, and it helps your body break down food particles and move food and other substances out of your digestive tract. The result? Quicker, more comfortable digestion and less bloating and gas.

* May support immunity

A healthy immune system just might be waiting for you at the bottom of a cup of ginger tea. Ginger has demonstrated antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties, not to mention vitamin c. This makes it an excellent natural remedy for supporting a healthy immune system. How exactly does ginger do all that? The ginger root contains compounds called gingerols, shogaol and paradols. These cool little compounds are capable of supporting your body’s fight against inflammation and free radicals.

* Lowering cancer risk

Ginger does not provide protein or other nutrients, but it is an excellent source of antioxidants. Studies have shown that, for this reason, ginger can reduce various types of oxidative stress.Oxidative stress happens when too many free radicals build up in the body. Free radicals are toxic substances produced by metabolism and other factors.The body needs to eliminate free radicals to prevent them from causing cellular damage that can lead to a range of diseases, including cancer. Dietary antioxidants help the body get rid of free radicals.