Is ginger healthy?

You've probably seen them in the supermarket or at a juice bar, those little bottles of ginger. We often hear the question: "Is ginger healthy?" The short and sweet answer is yes. Ginger is healthy. If you've never tried a ginger shot, you definitely should. Or better yet, make your own. A ginger shot is one of the best ways to start the day.

A serving of ginger in the morning will instantly prepare your body for the day! We already demand so much of ourselves, so be kind to your body. Ginger is a versatile spice that can be used in many ways to boost your health. So what are you waiting for? Add some ginger to your meals or smoothies and enjoy its powerful flavor and health benefits!

The benefits of ginger

You can use ginger root for much more than just adding a little spice to your food. Ginger has a distinctive flavor that adds a special touch to your dishes, but ginger root isn't just a favorite among foodies. Ginger is also incredibly healthy and even has certain medicinal properties. In Chinese and Indian cultures, ginger has been used for thousands of years to treat all sorts of illnesses and ailments. The question "Is ginger healthy?" is therefore immediately answered! The secret of ginger lies in gingerol. This is an organic compound in the ginger root that gives it its pungent flavor. Of the more than 100 different substances in ginger, gingerol is the most beneficial. Ginger is known as a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, thanks to the gingerol.

Ginger calms the stomach and aids digestion

Ginger is a natural remedy that helps with nausea and an upset stomach. Are you pregnant and regularly suffer from morning sickness? Then try ginger tea, take a shot of ginger, or add some to your smoothie. Had one too many drinks last night? Ginger is your best friend then too, as it helps with a bad hangover. Ginger root not only helps with stomach problems, it also promotes healthy digestion, reduces bloating, and constipation. An added bonus is that ginger promotes better nutrient absorption because it supports healthy bowel function.

A real boost for your immune system

These days, we easily push ourselves too hard. This has a definite impact on our physical well-being and immune system. Adding ginger to your daily diet is therefore a good way to protect your body against this. As a powerful antioxidant, ginger helps you combat free radicals in your body. Ginger has a cleansing effect on your lymphatic system. A daily serving of ginger prevents waste products from building up and ensures they are removed quickly. If you're feeling unwell and miserable, you'll find that an extra dose of ginger can work wonders. Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and helps with infections, reducing the strain on your immune system.

Ginger against infections

Ginger has certain antibacterial properties and therefore works against bacteria. A ginger shot helps flush harmful bacteria from your system. Studies have shown that ginger is effective against at least two types of pathogens: staphylococcus aureus and streptococcus pyogenes. These are two bacteria that can make you seriously ill, but ginger protects you against them. Ginger has also been proven to have antifungal properties.

Your metabolism in high gear

A cup of ginger tea or ginger smoothie isn't just a great way to start your day on a high note. If you're looking to lose a few pounds or build muscle, it's also a nice boost for your metabolism. Ginger causes your stomach to produce more acid, which stimulates your metabolism. This means your metabolism kicks into high gear. You'll burn more calories during your workouts, and ultimately, more fat. So ginger isn't just healthy; it also aids weight loss.

Faster recovery after a heavy workout

The time you give your body to recover after a workout is just as important as the workout itself. If you're sore, it's due to tiny tears in your muscles. These tears need to heal first, and then the muscle will have regained some strength. That's why rest is so important. We've already mentioned that ginger is a powerful anti-inflammatory, so it can also help your body recover faster after exercise.

Ginger affects glucose levels

When you feel anxious, it's often because of your blood sugar levels. Highs and lows in your blood sugar can cause restlessness, food cravings, crashes, and dizziness. People with diabetes are more susceptible to these symptoms because their bodies can't regulate their own blood sugar. Even people without diabetes can experience unhealthy highs and lows in their blood sugar. It's important to keep your blood sugar levels stable, and ginger can help with that. So the next time you reach for that chocolate bar, slice of cake, or other sweet treat because you're experiencing a sugar crash, just try a ginger smoothie or a ginger shot.

Make your own ginger shot

Did you know that just adding a spoonful of grated ginger to your tea can already benefit your body? If you really want to give your body a boost, a ginger shot is the best option. Not everyone has the luxury of a juice bar around the corner. Luckily, you can also make a ginger shot at home. With a little help from a slow juicer or blender , you too can give your body a daily power boost.

Ginger shot recipe

Ingredients (2 ginger shots)

• Two ginger roots
• ½ lemon
• Cup of water
• Agave syrup / honey

Supplies

• Blender
• Bowl or container
• Clean tea towel or cheesecloth (to strain the ginger mixture)

Steps

1. Peel the ginger and cut it into slices about half a centimeter thick. If you have a high-speed blender, you don't even need to cut into slices.
2. Place the ginger pieces in the blender jar and add some water to blend everything thoroughly. Half a cup of water is often enough.
3. Blend the ginger pieces until smooth.
4. Place the clean tea towel or cheesecloth over the bowl and pour the ginger mixture into the cloth. Fold the corners together and wring the cloth out thoroughly. We don't want to waste any of our ginger shot, of course.
5. You now have the base of your ginger shot in the container. Season it with half a lemon, squeezed out of the juice, and add a little agave syrup to taste. Stir briefly, and you're done.

Serve in a small glass or store for a few days in a closed bottle (preferably vacuum-sealed) in the refrigerator.

Is ginger healthy?

We've hopefully answered the question: "Is ginger healthy?" Eating ginger daily or drinking it in the form of a ginger shot offers a wealth of benefits. Are you simply looking for an extra boost? Or do you want to improve your athletic performance? Ginger is your answer!