8 Surprising Health Benefits of Ginger You Need to Know About

It's actually pretty magical.

Ginger and lemon drink
Getty Imagesby Elena Veselova

People have dug up Zingiber officinale, a.k.a. the root more commonly known as ginger, for its health benefits and spicy flavor since the beginning of time. But just because it's been around awhile doesn't mean it's a cure-all for your health. Here, we clarify the myths versus the facts on this trendy spice that's best known for bringing the heat.

1. It can reduce your risk of diabetes.

Scientists have linked some active compounds in ginger with improvements in insulin and metabolism. That said, if you're at risk for diabetes, adding extra to sugary gingerbread cookies won't do you any favors! Keep both dried and fresh ginger on-hand for flavoring smoothies and veggie-based stir-frys and soups. While some chemical compounds in ginger may decrease over time, the drying process enhances other beneficial ones.

2. It's a natural way to relieve period pain.


3. It's an anti-inflammatory.


4. It can settle an upset stomach.


5. It can also curb morning sickness.


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6. It may help prevent heart disease.

The same anti-inflammatory compounds in ginger can also reduce the risk of chronic disease. A 2016 review even linked regular ginger intake with lower cholesterol and blood sugar compared to a placebo. But just like diabetes, eating ginger can't offset an otherwise poor diet high in saturated fat and added sugar. You'll still have to consume more veggies, 100% whole grains, lean proteins, fish, legumes, and beans in order to reduce your risk.

7. It may lower your risk of cancer.

The cell-protecting properties of ginger can lower the long-term risk of certain cancers. That's because the spice and other flavorings may reduce cellular activity that causes DNA changes, cell death, and proliferation of cancer cells. It could also help sensitize tumors to treatments like chemo and radiation. While ginger's not a cure-all for any chronic disease, using it regularly with loads of other spices and plant-based foods can help benefit health overall.

8. It can help you lose weight.

Some small studies have linked ginger intake — when combined with other plant extracts — to some benefits in weight loss. And there's definitely some promising animal research linking ginger to weight management. But as with anything else, ginger is no magic weight-loss pill! Other components of a healthy, balanced diet matter just as much when it comes to losing weight and keeping it off.

The Bottom Line

Ginger can be a delicious way to flavor any anti-inflammatory diet plan. Plus, swapping the spice for added salt, sugar, or saturated fat may help us lose unwanted pounds! Use ginger for seasoning veggie-heavy meals and snacks, not solely for health benefits.

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