Ginger has been known to have the value of health benefits for thousands of years. The utilization of this spice is very diverse, from the start to the food, beverage, to beauty products.
Ancient literature of the Middle East, Asia, and Europe reveals tremendous benefits of ginger. Together kunyir, cardamom, and kencur, ginger used as a holistic medicine. In addition, ginger can also be used in everyday life.
Nutrients Contained in Ginger
The following are the nutrients contained in ginger per 100 grams:
- Carbohydrates: 17.86 grams
- Protein: 3.57 grams
- Fiber: 3.60 grams
- Fat: 0.07 grams
- Vitamin C: 7.7 milligrams (10% RDA)
- Vitamin B6: 0.2 milligrams (10% RDA)
- Potassium: 441.7 milligrams (12% RDA)
- Calcium: 14 milligrams (1% RDA)
- Magnesium: 26 milligrams (7% RDA)
- Phosphorus: 32 milligrams (4% RDA)
- Iron: 1.15 milligrams (7% RDA)
- Copper: 0.48 milligrams (60% RDA)
- Zinc: 0.7 milligrams (7% RDA)
Apart from these nutrients, ginger also contains active compounds that are beneficial for health, such as:
- Zingiberone: The compound that gives ginger its spicy taste.
- Gingerol: The compound that gives ginger its spicy taste.
- Sharonol: The compound that gives ginger its spicy taste.
- Kaempferol: An antioxidant compound that can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
- Gingerol Sesquiterpene: An antioxidant compound that may help reduce inflammation.
- Gingerol Oleoresin: An antioxidant compound that can help reduce nausea and vomiting.
These are 4 benefits of ginger.
1. Smoothen blood flow
Ginger contains chromium, magnesium, and zinc. Minerals are known to be required for maintaining normal blood flow and healthy.
2. Overcoming nausea during pregnancy (morning sickness)
American Pregnancy Association recommends consumption of ginger in
different forms such as tea or jam. The aim is to overcome morning
sickness is often encountered by pregnant women.
A study in 2011 found that the benefits of ginger for nausea might not be as smooth as previously thought. According to the study, ginger is effective in dealing with nausea, but the benefits are not consistent. Therefore, before using it to treat nausea, need to consult the doctor first.
A study in 2011 found that the benefits of ginger for nausea might not be as smooth as previously thought. According to the study, ginger is effective in dealing with nausea, but the benefits are not consistent. Therefore, before using it to treat nausea, need to consult the doctor first.
3. Increasing the rate of metabolism
Ginger increases the body temperature thus speeding up the burning of
calories during exercise. Ginger also give a warm effect on the food so
it's easier to make full body. In a study in 2012, creates a feeling of
warm ginger on the body so as to consume can reduce hunger.
4. Reduce muscle soreness after exercise
As an anti-inflammatory agent that is strong, ginger helps to reduce
muscle soreness. A study in the Journal of Pain found that ginger can
block the formation of compounds that cause inflammation,
prostaglandins, and leukotrienes that cause muscle pain. Researchers
also found that ginger has antioxidant effects that can parse
inflammation.
Effects of Consuming Ginger
Here are some conditions where you should avoid consuming ginger:
1. Blood disorder sufferers:
Ginger can increase the risk of bleeding in people with blood disorders, such as hemophilia or other blood clotting disorders.
2. Sufferers of stomach acid disorders:
Ginger can worsen symptoms of stomach acid disorders, such as heartburn and heartburn.
3. Diabetics:
Ginger can lower blood sugar levels, so diabetes sufferers must be careful when consuming it.
4. Gallstone sufferers:
Ginger can increase bile production, which can worsen gallstone symptoms.
5. Pregnant women:
Ginger can increase the risk of miscarriage or premature birth, so pregnant women should consult a doctor before consuming it.
Side effects of excessive ginger consumption can include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach ache
- Increased blood pressure
- Indigestion
- Sleep disorders
- Side effects of certain medications
Excessive ginger consumption can interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners, anticoagulant drugs and diabetes medications. Therefore, people with certain diseases or taking certain medications should consult a doctor before consuming ginger.
Tips for consuming ginger safely:
- Consume ginger in reasonable amounts. Healthy adults can consume up to 4 grams of ginger per day.
- Avoid consuming ginger if you have certain health conditions.
- Consume ginger with food. This can help reduce the side effects of ginger on the stomach.
- Avoid consuming ginger in supplement form. Ginger supplements can have higher dosages than fresh ginger or ginger powder.
- If you experience side effects after consuming ginger, stop consuming it immediately and consult a doctor.
