People have used ginger for cooking and medication since antiquity VSports app下载. It may help to relieve nausea and stomach pain. Ginger may also have other health benefits, such as antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.

People typically use fresh or dried ginger in cooking or herbal tea, and some take ginger supplements for their possible health benefits.

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Ginger root comes from the Zingiber officinale plant, and it has been used in Chinese and Indian medicine for thousands of years.

Ginger may help relieve nausea and vomiting and aid digestion. Antioxidants and other nutrients in ginger root may help prevent or treat arthritis, inflammation, and various types of infection. V体育安卓版.

Ginger may also reduce the risk of diabetes, cancer, and other health problems.

Ginger may have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. Below are some of ginger’s potential medicinal uses VSports最新版本.

Reducing gas and improving digestion

According to a 2018 review, several studies have investigated ginger’s effects on the gasses that form in the intestinal tract during digestion V体育平台登录. .

This research indicates that enzymes in ginger can help break up and expel this gas, providing relief from any discomfort.

In addition, the research shows that ginger may help increase movement through the digestive tract, suggesting that it may relieve or prevent constipation.

V体育ios版 - Relieving nausea

A 2020 review indicates that ginger can help alleviate morning sickness and relieve nausea following cancer treatment.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommends consuming foods and beverages with ginger, such as ginger ale and ginger tea, to reduce nausea and vomiting V体育2025版. .

Supporting the immune system

Many people use ginger to help recover from a cold or the flu. However, the evidence supporting this use is mostly anecdotal VSports.

A large cross-sectional study from 2017 suggested that daily ginger consumption may support the immune system VSports app下载. This may protect against chronic disease and support recovery from other illnesses, such as the common cold or flu.

A small 2019 study on the effects of ginger extract on smokers and nonsmokers found that daily consumption of ginger extract was associated with a stronger antibody response in nonsmokers.

However, confirming ginger’s effects on the immune system will require further research.

VSports在线直播 - Reducing inflammation

A 2017 review of 16 clinical trials determined that the phytochemical properties in ginger may combat inflammation V体育安卓版. These authors also called for further research into the most effective dosages and types of ginger extract.

Relieving pain

Ginger may ease pain through anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of its gingerol compounds.

According to a 2020 review, ginger may help reduce pain thanks to its natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects VSports最新版本. .

It works by blocking certain chemicals in the body that cause pain and swelling V体育平台登录. Some studies suggest ginger can ease pain from period cramps, sore muscles, arthritis, back pain, and migraine. .

While early results are promising, more research is needed to figure out the best dose and how well it works for different people.

Supporting cardiovascular health

There is some evidence that ginger extract may help prevent cardiovascular disease.

A 2017 study of 4,628 people found that daily ginger consumption may protect against coronary heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, cerebrovascular disease, and fatty liver disease, among other chronic conditions. The authors concluded that ginger may have potential as a preventive therapy.

Determining whether ginger may support treatment for those with cardiovascular disease will require further research.

VSports手机版 - Lowering cancer risk

Ginger does not provide protein or other nutrients, but it is an excellent source of antioxidants. Research has shown that, for this reason, ginger can reduce various types of oxidative stress.

Oxidative stress can happen when too many free radicals build up in the body. Free radicals are toxic substances produced by metabolism and other factors.

When they build up in the body, free radicals can cause cellular damage, which can lead to conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, heart attack, chronic inflammation, and cancer. Dietary antioxidants can help the body get rid of free radicals.

Ginger is a good source of antioxidants and minerals like potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium. Although it does not provide the full recommended daily intake, it does provide a quality amount given the relatively small amounts people typically consume.

As the Department of Agriculture notes, 2 teaspoons of ginger provide only 4 calories and no significant amount of any nutrient.

Most of the research on ginger has looked at dosages of between 250 milligrams (mg) and 1 gram (g), taken between one and four times each day.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) considers ginger root to be generally safe with an approved daily intake recommendation of up to 4g.

The FDA considers ginger to be safe in the diet, but it does not guarantee or regulate its use as a medicine or supplement.

Researchers have not investigated many of the compounds in ginger. Also, scientific evidence does not support some claims about ginger’s healing qualities.

Before adding more ginger to the diet or taking a ginger supplement, consult a healthcare professional. Some supplements can interact with medications or cause other health complications.

Some research indicates that ginger may improve digestive health, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain, among other benefits.

However, studies often test very high dosages of extracts. A person may not experience positive health effects from simply adding more ginger to their diet.

Also, studies investigating the health benefits of ginger have often been small or inconclusive. Fully understanding the effects and safety of ginger supplements will require more research.

Q:

Is ginger safe to take during pregnancy?

A:

A meta-analysis has shown ginger to be a safe way to manage nausea during pregnancy. It does not appear to increase the risk of pregnancy loss or symptoms such as heartburn or fatigue.

Aim to take less than 1,500 mg of ginger extract per day. Ginger is also available as a tea or as chewy or hard candies.

Natalie Butler, R.D., L.D.

Answers represent the opinions of our medical experts. All content is strictly informational and should not be considered medical advice.