How to Add Ginger to Your Diet for Better Health
Ginger has been an ingredient and home remedy since ancient times. But why? From serving as a tasty ingredient to providing anti-inflammatory relief, there are many health benefits of eating ginger root.
At 3Natives, we strive to serve exciting food that’s packed with healthy ingredients. To us, it’s all about finding ways to make healthy food taste good.
So, how and why should we add more ginger to our diet? Learn more about our favorite spice at 3Natives.
What Are The Health Benefits of Eating Ginger?
From fighting bacteria to calming an upset stomach, ginger is an ingredient that does it all – including adding flavor to your favorite meal.
Let’s investigate each of the health benefits that ginger provides.
Fights Germs
In addition to adding an extra layer of flavor, ginger helps prevent infections and fight germs! The chemical compounds that ginger is composed of can kill off harmful bacteria, such as E. Coli and Shigella.
They can also kill viruses, such as a respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). This virus commonly causes lung infections.
Assists with Menstrual Cramps
Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger works great for relief from menstrual cramps. Studies have shown that ginger is just as effective as ibuprofen or over-the-counter products for menstrual cramps.
Eases Nausea
Ginger has been known as a home remedy for treating nausea and vomiting. This spice can also assist with treating morning sickness, even offering fewer side effects than medication.
Although the exact reasons are unknown, it’s thought that ginger increases the digestive system’s responsiveness. The anti-inflammatory properties also help to calm your body and reduce nausea.
Reduces Swelling with Anti-inflammatories
As mentioned in the above section, ginger has anti-inflammatory properties. This makes ginger a powerful ingredient for reducing swelling, especially in those that suffer from arthritis.
Helps with Lowering Blood Sugar Levels
For those with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, eating a few grams of ginger may help lower your blood sugar. It can also assist with regulating the production of insulin.
Home Remedy for Indigestion
Easily recognizable by its unique flavor, ginger is also a well-known home remedy for indigestion. Said to reduce the possibility of stomach acid reaching the esophagus, ginger works to calm your digestive system.
Side Effects of Ginger
Ginger is a powerful spice that offers many health benefits. Before beginning your ginger supplementation journey, make sure you know the side effects of consuming too much ginger.
When consumed in large amounts, ginger can have negative side effects, such as abdominal discomfort or heartburn. To prevent these from occurring, limit your daily intake to 3 to 4 grams per day.
Ginger in Ancient Times
Indigenous to China, ginger root is now grown in India and many other parts of the world. Besides being used as flavoring in foods, ginger has been a long-time traditional medicine.
For over 5,000 years, the Chinese have used ginger to treat nausea and digestive issues. Like most spices, ginger was a luxury item. Once it made its way to Europe, it was used to treat digestive problems and eventually found itself into the shape of a gingerbread man.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, ginger serves as a treatment for sickness brought on by cold or damp weather.
Ways to Add Ginger into Your Diet
Now that you’ve learned all the health benefits of ginger, you’re wanting to learn how to add it to your diet.
For those that drink smoothies, add a bit of fresh ginger to warm up your recipe. Its flavor goes well with any fruits or vegetables.
After a long day, consider winding down with a hot cup of ginger tea. Paired with lemon and honey, this sweet drink will soothe your body and mind.
If you’re wanting to add more flavor to stir fries, try adding ginger.
There are many ways to consume ginger, such as ginger extract, ginger powder, just by eating it fresh off the root. All provide an exciting flavor experience and deliver health benefits.
The best way to receive all the health benefits of ginger is by eating it fresh off the root. It can easily be shredded or sliced to add a new level of flavor to any dish.
If you’re looking for high amounts of ginger, avoid ginger ale. Although this soft drink tastes great, it often contains very small amounts of the spice.
Enjoy Fresh Ginger at 3Natives
Wondering where you can find delicious ginger near you? Head to your local 3Natives to try our ginger dressing! Our Thai Chicken and Curry Chicken salads are packed with fresh fruits and vegetables, then served with a side of ginger dressing.
For those wanting to quickly enjoy their daily ginger supplement, try 3Natives Twister Ginger Shot or Ginger Shot today! Made with fresh ginger, our shots are a great way to expand your diet.
The 3Natives Slim N’ Spicy juice is loaded with flavor from ginger, cayenne, and natural sweeteners. This juice mixture is perfect for anyone who wants to savor their daily ginger intake.
Discover the rest of 3Natives healthy and delicious food, by viewing our menu or visiting your local 3Natives.
