Emma Miller
Ginger can be confidently called a superfood, as no other product contains as many nutrients as it does.
Ginger is useful because it contains about 400 natural compounds. The main value lies in the presence of micro- and macroelements: calcium, phosphorus, copper, selenium, iron, and zinc. Vitamins are represented by groups B, K, and E. Ginger contains:
- 80% water, 15% carbohydrates, fiber, ash;
- amino acids – tryptophan, methionine, leucine;
- essential oil;
- fatty acids – caprylic, linoleic, oleic;
- curcumin – a natural antibiotic and immunomodulator.
Camphor, linalool, borneol, beta-carotene, and other chemical compounds have a positive effect on the body. However, the nutrient content is low – 1% of the daily value. The energy value is 15 kcal/100 g.
Fights germs
Some chemical compounds in fresh ginger help the body fight germs. They are particularly good at stopping the growth of bacteria such as E. coli and can also inhibit viruses such as RSV.
Soothes inflamed muscles
Ginger won’t get rid of muscle pain on the spot, but it can tame soreness over time. In some studies, people with muscle pain from exercise who took ginger had less pain the next day than those who did not.
Lowers blood sugar levels
One recent small study found that ginger can help your body use insulin better. Larger studies are needed to see if ginger can help improve blood sugar levels.
Lowers cholesterol levels
A daily dose of ginger can help you fight “bad” LDL cholesterol levels. In a recent study, taking 5 grams of ginger a day for 3 months lowered LDL cholesterol levels in people by an average of 30 points.
Protects against diseases
Ginger is rich in antioxidants, compounds that prevent stress and damage to your body’s DNA. They can help your body fight chronic diseases such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and lung disease, and promote healthy aging.
How to use ginger
Coffee and ginger create a powerful duo that helps fight free radicals (don’t forget that coffee is one of the richest sources of antioxidants).
To get this morning’s superfood and fully unleash the beneficial properties of the root, simply add ground ginger to your cup or mug (1 teaspoon per cup) or try making Yemeni kish, a traditional ginger coffee drink from the Middle East. It improves digestion and helps the gastrointestinal tract cope with heavy meals.
If you prefer to start your morning with a cup of tea rather than coffee, then make a ginger drink. Some people are used to drinking this tea in the cold to strengthen their immune system, but we recommend starting with it every morning.
In addition to its warming effect, ginger tea eliminates nausea, and relieves motion sickness or morning sickness caused by pregnancy. Also, this drink is rich in vitamin C, which perfectly strengthens the immune system.
The ginger jam goes perfectly with a morning toast, and it can also be combined with peanut butter. This jam does not lose its beneficial properties and will be a great alternative to the usual butter or chocolate paste. A great option for people with high blood sugar.
