Research indicates that including a few slices in your morning tea during breakfast can significantly benefit your health and weight when incorporated into a balanced diet.
Experts suggest that a common ingredient found in most kitchen cupboards could play a huge part in shedding stubborn body fat. According to various studies, ginger, particularly fresh root ginger, is packed with nutritional benefits that could aid in weight loss.
Incorporating ginger into your diet can be as easy as popping a few slices into a hot cup of water and enjoying it as part of your morning breakfast routine. Alternatively, you can purchase boxes of ginger teabags or packets of ginger powder that simply need to be mixed with water.
Aldi is selling a bag of three fresh root gingers for 89p, which means just one piece costs as little as 29p. For an added twist and extra health boost, consider adding a slice of lemon. To reap the hydration and appetite control benefits of both ginger and lemon, aim to consume a lemon-ginger drink two to three times a day.
Research suggests that ginger has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which could help individuals burn fat and regulate their blood sugar levels. This is attributed to two compounds found in ginger – zingerone and shogaols, both of which have been shown to suppress appetite, making weight loss easier when paired with a balanced diet.
Studies have also indicated that these compounds can enhance metabolism and stimulate the body to burn more energy. A 2017 study found that these compounds play a significant role in positively influencing the body’s processes related to burning and storing fat, reports Gloucestershire Live.
In a 2015 study, obese women were asked to take two 1g tablets of powdered ginger daily for 12 weeks. The results revealed that the group experienced a significant decrease in appetite and body measurements compared to those who didn’t take the tablet.
Another small study involved 10 men who consumed 2g of ginger powder mixed in a hot drink during breakfast. The findings showed that the participants felt less hungry and had an increase in thermogenesis – a process known as generating heat through calorie burning.
Although the existing research on ginger’s impact on weight loss looks encouraging, further studies are necessary for scientists to reach conclusive findings. If you’re aiming to shed some pounds, it’s best to avoid ginger beer or ginger ale, as they typically have high levels of added sugar.
Individuals taking blood-thinning medications like warfarin or aspirin should consult their doctor before incorporating ginger into their diet. For pregnant women, the suggested daily limit for ginger is 1g, while others can safely consume up to 4g per day.
Other benefits of ginger:
Ginger has a long history of use in traditional medicine, dating back thousands of years, to address various health issues. It can be enjoyed in numerous ways, such as a spice or flavour enhancer in dishes, or in more concentrated forms like ginger shots.
- Digestion: Gingerol, a compound in ginger, helps food move through the digestive system more efficiently.
- Nausea: Ginger can help with nausea caused by chemotherapy or pregnancy.
- Pain relief: Ginger can help with joint pain and period pain.
- Heart health: Ginger may help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, which can reduce the risk of heart disease.
- Blood sugar: Ginger may help control blood sugar.
- Immune system: Ginger may help the body fight germs.
- Mouth health: Ginger may help keep the mouth healthy.
- Sore muscles: Ginger may help soothe sore muscles.
