A lot of attention has been given to supplements which are great for adding vital nutrients and antioxidants to your body. But one of the healthiest and most delicious-tasting food additives is a naturally occurring substance which can easily be incorporated into your diet; Ginger! Ginger offers benefits that your body and brain can benefit from, if you make it a regular part of your diet.
Anti-inflammatory agent
The main bioactive compound found in Ginger root is called Gingerol. Gingerol contains most of the medicinal properties of Ginger. In addition to being used to improve digestion, lessen the impact of nausea, and to help fight colds and flu, the Gingerol component has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects on the body.
Help for diabetes
There's a good deal of ongoing research which studies the relationship between Ginger usage and the reduction of symptoms associated with diabetes. A 2015 study of patients diagnosed with Type II diabetes showed that blood sugar levels were lowered by an average of 12% among the participants. There were also a 28% reduction in the level of ApoB, and a 23% reduction in the markers which indicate oxidized lipoproteins. Since both of these are considered to be high risk factors for heart disease, taking ginger as part of a healthy diet and exercise regimen should be highly considered.
Chronic indigestion
People bothered by chronic indigestion or dyspepsia generally experience recurring pain and discomfort in the upper area of their stomachs. Scientists believe that a delay in emptying the contents of the stomach is a major cause of that indigestion. Research has shown that Ginger significantly speeds up the emptying of a person's stomach, thereby bringing relief to those who have this condition. One specific study has shown that after ingesting Ginger powder before a meal, participants experienced a 50% shorter time frame in emptying their stomachs as compared those who did not take Ginger.
Relief for menstrual pain
One of the medicinal uses which Ginger has commonly been used for is for the relief of pain and specifically menstrual pain. One recent study conducted among 150 women asked them to each ingest Ginger powder throughout the day during the first three days of their cycles. During those three days, it was found that taking Ginger powder was as effective as taking ibuprofen or mefenamic acid.
Lowering cholesterol
In a study conducted among 85 individuals with high levels of cholesterol, ingesting Ginger powder daily caused a significant lowering of cholesterol markers among participants. Since high levels of LDL lipoproteins, which constitute the bad cholesterol, are associated with an elevated risk for heart disease, reducing cholesterol is of prime importance. Other studies have been conducted which show a similar reduction in total cholesterol and the level of blood triglycerides.
Even if you are not treating a medical diagnosis Ginger is an absolute amazing supplement to add to your daily regiment. Since it is often consumed in such small amounts, ginger does not add significant quantities of calories, carbohydrate, protein, or fiber. There are few spices in the world more useful or beneficial to human health than ginger, a root that’s typically available in most parts of the world at a remarkably affordable price. So, why wait, start adding Ginger powder to your life today.