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Ginger is one of those seasonings that adds something special to anything it’s in. Whether ginger is the dominant flavor, like in gingerbread, or whether it serves as that intriguing hint of spice in a stir fry or stew, it offers a nice combination of sweet and spicy that pleases the palate. But surely something that good must be used in moderation, right? Nope. Turns out, daily consumption of ginger offers all sorts of health benefits. Even if you don’t like the flavor, you may want to start taking supplements.
1. Manage acid reflux
Acid reflux, otherwise known as heartburn, is a painful condition that may have you reaching for an over-the-counter medication to relieve your symptoms. Next time, head to the produce section instead. Some of the active substances in ginger are used in heartburn medicines because of ginger’s anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea capabilities. Taking some ginger when you experience acid reflux will manage the symptoms, but evidence also shows that regular ginger consumption can reduce the chance of episodes occurring at all.
2. Anti-inflammatory properties
Another way that ginger’s anti-inflammatory effects can help relates to your joints. Swollen joints limit range of motion and cause intense, chronic pain. The substance in ginger that researchers think reduces inflammation is called gingerol, and it is present in large quantities in the root.
Certain studies have also found that ginger is as effective as ibuprofen in reducing joint pain. In fact, researchers determined in 2015 that osteoarthritis sufferers could even relieve pain topically by applying a cream or ointment that contains ginger.
3. Improved skin
Ginger may also be great for your skin, but you don’t necessarily have to apply it topically to see the results. The fact that ginger is so good for digestion has a corollary effect on how your skin looks, because food that sits in the digestive system for too long can create toxic byproducts that manifest in problems like psoriasis, eczema, and acne.
Ginger helps on the inside to promote digestion, but can also contribute to clear, smooth skin when it exits your body via perspiration. Ginger may also serve as an antiseptic for small cuts or abrasions.
4. Beat the cancer odds
There is significant hesitation among doctors to recommend holistic or homeopathic treatment for cancer, but doctors at the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center have reported the finding that ginger is a powerful weapon against cancer cells.
More research is needed, but don’t wait until you have cancer to start using ginger. We know that it reduces colon and intestinal inflammation, and thereby reduces your risk for developing digestive cancers.
5. Improved digestion
Ginger helps improve digestion in several ways. It is good at settling an upset stomach, which is why many pregnant women use it to combat morning sickness. Ginger also helps relax cramped intestines, particularly good for sufferers of IBS. It also rids the digestive system of embarrassing gas!
If you need yet another reason to eat ginger for your digestive health, it boosts your body’s ability to absorb the nutrients from your meals, leading to better overall health.
