Ginger water helps regulate blood pressure, controls blood sugar, reduces inflammation, helps deal with nausea, reduces the risk of chronic disease, boosts metabolism, and aids in weight loss. It is also rich in antioxidants and good for teeth, skin, and hair.
Originally native to South Asia, ginger is common in food and medicine around the world. The ginger plant is rich in natural chemicals that can promote your health and wellness. Ginger water, also commonly known as ginger tea, is one way to enjoy the health benefits of ginger.
9 Must-Know Health Benefits of Ginger Water
Controls blood sugar
If you have a low metabolic rate or if your blood sugar levels are relatively high in the latest blood reports, add ginger water to your diet every day with a dash of lemon and that will protect your kidneys and cuts down on the negative effects of diabetes or blood sugar. Ginger water can help alleviate symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes while also preventing it.
Reduces Inflammation
Consuming ginger may help prevent and heal inflammation. Inflammation is one of your body’s natural self-preservation functions. Germs, chemicals and a poor diet can cause harm to your body. Inflammation is a very common problem for most people. Diet and lifestyle changes may be necessary to fight chronic inflammation.
Helps deal with nausea
Culturally, ginger is a home remedy for nausea and digestive issues. Consuming a glass of hot water with ginger can help improve digestion and reduce feelings of vomiting.
Rich in antioxidants
The antioxidant properties of ginger may help to prevent heart diseases, neurodegenerative diseases (such as Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and Huntington’s), cancer and symptoms of aging by reducing the presence of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that cause oxidative stress and damage your cells.
Decreases feelings of pain
Ginger water is useful for reducing different kinds of pains like toothache and migraines. Ginger water has anti-inflammatory properties that can balance the functioning of blood vessels, by increasing the blood flow in your body and resulting in effective pain relief.
Reduces the risk of chronic disease
Ginger — including other vegetables, fruits, nuts, beans, and whole grains – contain high amounts of phytonutrients, these antioxidant compounds help counteract chronic inflammation and keep your body healthy.
Boosts metabolism and aids weight loss
Ginger which cleanses the body from within is also known for increasing metabolism rate. By doing so, it helps in the quick burning of fat and thereby resulting in weight loss. It is recommended to consume a glass of ginger water before or after each meal.
Good for your teeth, skin, and hair
Ginger, with its antibacterial and anti-fungal properties, kills the harmful oral bacteria that cause infections like gingivitis and periodontitis. Ginger water also promotes good hair and skin health by cleansing them and enhancing growth.
Helps regulate blood pressure
Ginger water helps in lowering down the blood pressure instantly and also helps in thinning the blood.
Are there any side effects of Ginger Water?
Drinking ginger water is safe. However, it may be best to consult a doctor first. However, there are some concerns that ingesting ginger could interfere with blood-thinning medication. People who take blood-thinning medication should consult with their doctor before drinking ginger water.
Overconsumption of this drink can lead to many potential risks like:
- Heart Burn
- Oral Ulcers
- Burning Sensation in Mouth and Stomach
- Stomach Upset
- Diarrhea
- Dehydration
Can I have it during pregnancy?
It is absolutely safe to consume ginger water while pregnant. However, do consult your physician in case there are complications with your pregnancy.
Can we give Ginger Water to children?
Ginger water is safe in small quantities for children. It is healthy for them because it can soothe stomach aches, gassiness, and nausea.
Some simple recipes with Ginger Water:
Ginger water for weight loss
Ingredients:
- Ginger root
- Water
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tsp lemon juice
Directions:
- In a saucepan, add a glass of water.
- Add ginger pieces and allow the water to boil.
- Once the water boils, let it simmer for 5 minutes or until the ginger flavor is absorbed into the water.
- Switch off the flame.
- Allow it to attain lukewarm temperature.
- Strain the ginger water.
- Add a tsp of honey and stir well.
- Add a tsp of lemon extract into the ginger water and stir well.
- Ginger water for weight loss drink is ready.
- Consume this drink daily once or twice before or after meals.
Original ginger water
Ingredients:
- Ginger root
- Water
- Lemon (optional)
Directions:
- Wash the part of the ginger root you’ll be using.
- Use a zester to grate 1/2 teaspoon of ginger.
- Boil 4 cups of water on the stove.
- Add the ginger once the water is boiling.
- Remove the ginger water from the heat and let the ginger steep in the water for 10 minutes.
- Strain the ginger pieces from the water and discard the ginger.
- Drink ginger water hot or cold, with the lemon.
Sources:
- http://www.organicsoul.com/7-reasons-drinking-ginger-water/
- https://yummyindiankitchen.com/ginger-water-for-weight-loss-ginger-water-recipe/
- https://babyfoode.com/blog/ginger-profile/
- https://www.healthline.com/health/ginger-water
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322257.php
