Tips and Benefits of GInger. Five Ways Ginger Can Spice Up Your Health
Ginger is an incredible versatile (and tasty!) ingredient and is not limited to use in the ktichen. One of the oldest natural medicines, ginger is frequently used in Ayurvedic medicine, aromatherapy, naturopathy, and herbal therapy.
Since ginger is so widespread in use, it is well worth knowing what this little root can do for our health.
Ginger is a great source for heart healthy magnesium, vitamin B6 and potassium, as well as copper and magnesium. The best way to consume ginger is fresh, and the ginger root should be firm, shiny and smooth. Most frequently you will find mature ginger, which has a tough skin that requires peeling. Young ginger is another version, that is typically available in Asian markets and does not need to be peeled.
Here are five ways ginger can help spice up your health:
- Ginger promotes digestive health
Ginger can help reduce bloating and gas, as well as helping with nausea, especially motion sickness and vomiting related to pregnancy. It can ease a variety of gut issues, such as ulcerative colitis and acid reflux.
- Ginger helps fight cancer
Ginger has been known for its ability to shrink tumors, and to be more effective than many cancer drugs! The ginger works by blocking the cancer from growing, thus preventing its ability of spreading. It has shown to be particularly effective in fighting ovarian and breast cancer, as well as prostate cancer.
- Ginger has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties
Ginger contains gingerols and shogaols, which are anti-fungal components of the ginger root and helpful to fight against candida, as it will help support your liver while it detoxifies.
Did you know ginger has been shown to be more effective against staph infections than antibiotics?
- Ginger is an anti-inflammatory
Ginger has shown to help people with osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis and other muscular dysfunction, reducing their pain and improving their mobility when eating ginger regularly. Ginger can also help relieve muscle soreness after working out.
- Ginger helps reduce cholesterol, controls blood sugar levels and prevents blood clots
Ginger may help reduce the risk of heart disease.
Ginger can also help relieve migraines, menstrual pain and fights colds and the flu…. Pretty amazing, right?
Here are 5 ways to enjoy ginger:
1) Saute them and use to flavor vegetables, legumes and rice dishes.
2) Slice fresh ginger and add to your hot lemon water in the morning for a detoxifying, healthy start to your day.
3) Add sliced or chopped ginger to salads, dressings, and sauces along with tamari, garlic and sesame oil.
4) Add freshly grated ginger to your smoothie or juice.
5) Make a flavorful curry!
Hopefully these points and tips have encouraged you to run out and buy some ginger and incorporate it into your diet – your body will thank you!
Contributed by Sunny Gandara.
