Fresh ginger, ginger powder, ginger shots, ginger tea and so on, we could go on and on. Fresh ginger, or ginger root, is ( just like turmeric ) a root tuber with a spicy, fresh, but also spicy taste. There are fifty species! It has a recognizable taste, which is mainly used in Asian cuisine as a seasoning. In addition to dinner, ginger is also used to make tea, bake cookies or even make ginger beer. Ginger can be found everywhere these days. Not only because it is so delicious to use in our food, but also because ginger is said to be very healthy. But is that so? There is, of course, a difference between using ginger as a seasoning and as a medicine.

Healthy properties of ginger

Although the results of (scientific) studies differ, it is clear that ginger has many healthy properties. It is packed with vitamins and minerals and is very high in fiber. Ginger root also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It purifies the body, prevents the build-up of toxins and stimulates blood flow . The three main active ingredients in ginger are gingerol (stimulates liver function and reduces nausea), shogoal (anti-inflammatory and analgesic) and zingiberene (healthy digestion).

Ginger is anti-inflammatory

Due to its anti-inflammatory effect, it can help fight inflammation in the body and skin. The purifying action of ginger from the inside provides better-looking skin. It even seems to work well if you rub fresh ginger directly on the skin. So never just throw away the little leftover ginger! In addition, ginger is used against nausea: just suck on a fresh piece of ginger and the nausea can disappear.

Ginger: an addition to the diet

Ginger can also help with menstrual cramps and help regulate insulin levels in your body while promoting nutrient absorption. These last two properties make ginger a great addition to the diet when you plan to lose weight. Of course you do not immediately lose weight by taking ginger, but your blood sugar level is very important in the weight loss process and ginger tea reduces the feeling of hunger, which indirectly helps with weight loss. So a little ginger every day is heart healthy.

Processed ginger is less effective

Fresh ginger root is processed in different ways and is available in many varieties, such as powder, oil, juice, tea. In addition to fresh ginger, ginger powder, ginger tea and pickled ginger (vinegar) are in the Wheel of Five of the Nutrition Center. Although all variants have a positive effect on health and work in the same way, fresh ginger is the strongest. The more a medicinal plant is worked, the more of its effect it loses.

Paying attention is half the battle

Be careful with the amount of ginger you use. Although ginger is not dangerous, too much ginger can cause a few health problems. Excessive use of ginger, for example, causes stomach and intestinal complaints, but it can also cause more serious complaints such as heart palpitations, dehydration and dizziness / sleepiness. A little bit of ginger powder or fresh ginger every day is enough to have a positive effect on your body, so don’t take more than necessary.

When no ginger at all?

There are also a few situations where it is better to use little or no ginger at all. Avoid using ginger completely in children under the age of two. In addition, pay attention to whether you regularly suffer from heartburn, diarrhea or bloating after using ginger. This may indicate that you are allergic or (hyper)sensitive to ginger. In that case, it is better to leave ginger alone. Ginger is also not recommended if you suffer from gallstones or stomach acid problems. Ginger increases stomach acid. Ginger is also not recommended for heart complaints or fever, because ginger increases the heart rate and body temperature. It is also wise to leave ginger during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Remember that overuse of any food is bad for your health, including overuse of ginger (fresh, powder or other variants). Although an ‘overdose’ of ginger does not happen quickly, forewarned counts for two. When in doubt, it is always wise to contact a doctor first. In any case, ginger in moderation can do no harm and can improve your health in many ways. Especially if you choose (products with) fresh ginger. Don’t like the taste? Then choose ginger powder in the food or supplements.

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