Doctors Reveal What Consuming Ginger Can Do to Your Body
Ginger has been used for centuries as a food and traditional remedy. Modern research suggests that ginger may provide some useful health benefits, particularly for nausea and digestive discomfort. However, more ginger is not necessarily better, and it can cause side effects in some people.
Ginger May Help With Nausea
One of the best-known uses of ginger is helping reduce nausea. It has been studied for nausea associated with pregnancy, motion sickness, and some medical treatments. Its effects vary from person to person, and ginger should not be considered a replacement for medical treatment when nausea is severe or persistent.
It May Support Digestion
Ginger may help the digestive system move food through the stomach and may reduce feelings of bloating or digestive discomfort in some people. Drinking ginger tea or adding fresh ginger to meals can be a simple way to include it in the diet.
Ginger Contains Anti-Inflammatory Compounds
Ginger contains naturally occurring compounds called gingerols and related substances that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Research has investigated ginger for several inflammatory and pain-related conditions, although the strength of evidence varies depending on the condition.
Too Much Ginger Can Cause Problems
Consuming large amounts of ginger may cause heartburn, stomach discomfort, diarrhea, or irritation of the mouth and throat. People with sensitive stomachs may notice these effects more easily.
Using ginger in normal food amounts is generally different from taking concentrated ginger supplements, which can provide much larger doses.
Be Careful If You Take Certain Medicines
Ginger may affect blood clotting, so people who take blood-thinning or antiplatelet medicines should discuss concentrated ginger supplements with a healthcare professional. It may also affect blood sugar or blood pressure, which can matter for people taking medicines for these conditions.
This does not mean everyone taking medication must avoid ginger. The appropriate amount depends on the individual and the specific medication.
Ginger Is Not a Miracle Cure
Claims that ginger can “detox” the body, cure serious diseases, or replace prescribed treatment are not supported simply because ginger has beneficial compounds.
A reasonable amount of ginger can be part of a balanced diet, but persistent pain, unexplained weight changes, ongoing vomiting, severe abdominal symptoms, or other concerning symptoms should be medically evaluated.
The Bottom Line
Ginger can be a useful addition to meals and beverages and may help with nausea and some digestive symptoms. At the same time, concentrated amounts can cause side effects or interact with certain medications. Using it as a food rather than assuming that more is better is a sensible approach.
