Either sliced, chopped, brewed or eaten raw, the health benefits of ginger are worth exploring in as many tasty ways as possible.
Not only is ginger chock full of antioxidants, but it’s also been used in medical traditions throughout the world for centuries to relieve pain, curb inflammation, and settle nausea.
Here’s everything you need to know about the many health benefits of ginger root, and how to incorporate it into your diet so you can stay strong and healthy.
Health Benefits of Ginger
1. Reduces risk of diabetes
Ginger helps to regulate insulin and keep your metabolism humming, reducing your overall risk of diabetes. Keeping insulin in check and metabolism roaring is crucial for anyone who struggle to maintain a healthy weight.
Another fruit that helps manages diabetes is Cucumber. You can check the health benefits of cucumber here.
2. Regulate blood sugar
Ginger is most often prized for its ability to soothe, but one of the most surprising health benefits of ginger is that it also helps regulate blood sugar.
This minimizes the negative symptoms of high blood sugar, which, if left untreated, can lead to major health problems, like diabetes.
3. Fights infections
Thanks to powerful anti-fungal and antimicrobial compounds, ginger might even help you fight off a cold or an infection.
“Mix hot water with two tablespoons of fresh grated ginger, juice of one lemon, and half a tablespoon of honey,” suggests Miller at Women’s Health. “Or, toss a teaspoon into chicken soup for some added cold-fighting benefits.”
4. Relieves muscle pain
Because of ginger’s anti-inflammatory properties, it’s often used to help relieve muscle and joint pain, including arthritis.
One study published in The Journal of Pain found that athletes who supplemented with ginger experienced reduced muscle pain after exercise.
Don’t retire your foam roller just yet—but do consider adding ginger to your post-workout meal to help ease achy muscles the next day.
5. An anti-inflammatory
Related to super-foods like turmeric and cardamom, ginger contains the compound gingerol, a natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant.
Naturally occurring anti-inflammatories are important because they can help curb an overactive immune system. Inflammation is your body’s natural and healthy response to injury or illness—and it tells your white blood cells that it’s time to start healing.
