GINGER.













8 Surprising Health Benefits of Ginger You Need to Know About

 People have dug up Zingiber officinale, a.k.a. the root more commonly known as ginger, for its health benefits and spicy flavor since the beginning of time. But just because it's been around awhile doesn't mean it's a cure-all for your health. Here, we clarify the myths versus the facts on this trendy spice that's best known for bringing the heat.

1. It can reduce your risk of diabetes.

Scientists have linked some active compounds in ginger with improvements in insulin and metabolism. That said, if you're at risk for diabetes, adding extra to sugary gingerbread cookies won't do you any favors! Keep both dried and fresh ginger on-hand for flavoring smoothies and veggie-based stir-fry’s and soups. While some chemical compounds in ginger may decrease over time, the drying process enhances other beneficial ones.

2. It's a natural way to relieve period pain.

Out of all of the research done on ginger's pain-relieving properties, results show it helps with menstrual pain the most. Sipping ginger tea can also soothe nausea during that time of the month. However, if you usually take acetaminophen or ibuprofen, it may not work as well. Check with your doc before trying any supplement in extract or pill form, since it may interact with other medications you're taking.

3. it’s an anti-inflammatory.

Like other produce, nuts, seeds, beans, and whole grains, ginger contains antioxidant-like compounds called phytonutrients that may reduce cell damage. The root can also prevent inflammation from starting by reducing cell-signaling activity. With that in mind, adding ginger to already good-for-you, nutrient-dense meals is the key to unlocking those properties.

4. It can settle an upset stomach.

The idea that ginger can help with some light tummy trouble isn't new. In fact, research has linked multiple digestive benefits to ginger, specifically acting on parts of your GI tract responsible for feelings of nausea, stomach upset, and vomiting. It may also help move food from the stomach to the small intestine for digestion and absorption. That said, ginger cannot prevent food poisoning or counteract ingestion of a harmful substance, so contact your physician ASAP if something requires urgent medical attention.

5. It can also curb morning sickness.

And speaking of an upset stomach, pregnant women in particular should take note: Ginger may help reduce symptoms of morning sickness! In fact, research supports the safety and efficacy of ginger during pregnancy, with some improvement in symptoms when compared to a placebo.

6. It may help prevent heart disease.

The same anti-inflammatory compounds in ginger can also reduce the risk of chronic disease. A 2016 review even linked regular ginger intake with lower cholesterol and blood sugar compared to a placebo. But just like diabetes, eating ginger can't offset an otherwise poor diet high in saturated fat and added sugar. You'll still have to consume more veggies, 100% whole grains, lean proteins, fish, legumes, and beans in order to reduce your risk.

7. It may lower your risk of cancer.

The cell-protecting properties of ginger can lower the long-term risk of certain cancers. That's because the spice and other flavorings may reduce cellular activity that causes DNA changes, cell death, and proliferation of cancer cells. It could also help sensitize tumors to treatments like chemo and radiation. While ginger's not a cure-all for any chronic disease, using it regularly with loads of other spices and plant-based foods can help benefit health overall.

8. It can help you lose weight.

Some small studies have linked ginger intake — when combined with other plant extracts — to some benefits in weight loss. And there's definitely some promising animal research linking ginger to weight management. But as with anything else, ginger is no magic weight-loss pill! Other components of a healthy, balanced diet matter just as much when it comes to losing weight and keeping it off.

Fresh Ginger Tea

Ginger tea is a lovely, lightly spicy drink for warming up on cold days. It’s a light, alcohol-free alternative to a night cap. It soothes upset stomachs and eases indigestion if you over-indulge this holiday season (don’t we all?).
All in all, fresh ginger tea recipe is an excellent drink to keep in your repertoire this winter. Ready to make some.

Uses for Ginger Tea

Ginger tea is a warming drink for cool weather. It’s a nice morning or afternoon pick-me-up, yet also a relaxing evening sipper. If you’re in the mood for a seasonal drink that isn’t heavy like chocolate can be, try ginger tea!
Ginger tea is a non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated, and virtually calorie-free drink (unless you add a sweetener). So, it’s a great option if you’re cutting back on any of the above.
Ginger tea aids digestion, helps soothe upset stomachs, and can reduce nausea. It might offer some relief to women with morning sickness as well. According to registered dietitian Lily Nichols(affiliate link/don’t get any big ideas), “Ginger is the most well-studied herb used during pregnancy, and has been proven effective in the treatment of nausea and vomiting. Ginger has been used for centuries to reduce nausea and is the only herb that is almost universally considered safe by conventional standards… ginger ale or ginger sodas usually don’t have enough actual ginger to be effective.”

How to Make Ginger Tea


I tried several ginger tea methods, and the easiest way is truly the best way. Here’s how to do it:
1.      Thinly slice your fresh ginger. You don’t need to peel it first, but do rinse it and scrub off any visible dirt. Plan on about using about a one-inch piece of ginger per cup of tea.
2.     In a saucepan, combine the ginger with fresh water (use one cup of water per serving).
3.     Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat as necessary to maintain a gentle simmer.
4.     Simmer for five minutes (or up to 10 minutes, if you want extra-strong tea). I usually think it’s pungent enough at five minutes.
5.     Pour the tea through a fine sieve to catch all of the ginger. If desired, serve your tea with a thin round of lemon or orange for some complementary acidity. You might also appreciate a light drizzle of honey or maple syrup, which will temper the fiery ginger flavor.

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