Ginger is not only a zesty addition to both sweet and savoury dishes, but boasts a wealth of medicinal properties, including the ability to slash cholesterol levels and support heart health among others
There’s a common kitchen ingredient that, when incorporated into daily meals or consumed regularly, could dramatically cut cholesterol levels and boost heart health whilst also tackling nausea, reducing inflammation, fighting off colds, and providing defence against dementia and cancer.
Ginger, the potent super root from Asia, is celebrated as “one of the most nutritious foods that exists”, having been utilised in traditional medicine for over 2,500 years.
Cholesterol and Heart Health
When it comes to managing cholesterol, research published in 2022 examining 26 clinical trials discovered that eating ginger substantially decreased triglycerides and low-density lipoprotein (LDL, known as “bad” cholesterol) levels, whilst boosting high-density lipoprotein (HDL, or “good” cholesterol) levels.
The research also revealed that ginger could reduce blood pressure, reports the Express.
Remarkably, even quantities under 1,500 mg daily showed positive effects.
A controlled study carried out in 2004 found that ginger has a “significant” effect on reducing fatty substances known as lipids, compared to a placebo.
Raised cholesterol levels can increase the risk of serious health crises such as heart attacks and strokes, as well as heart disease.
People with type 2 diabetes could particularly benefit from ginger, as a review of 10 studies previously showed that consuming one to three grams of ginger daily for four to 12 weeks assisted in enhancing both cholesterol levels as well as blood sugar management. The advantages are thought to arise from several processes, including improved insulin sensitivity, decreased oxidative stress, and more effective glucose absorption by cells.
Furthermore, ginger’s anti-inflammatory qualities may also contribute to protecting heart health.
‘Bad cholesterol’, elevated blood pressure, and raised blood sugar are all risk factors that have been associated with heart disease. Remarkably, ginger could potentially assist with all three.
Dementia and Cancer
Healthline suggests that compounds found in ginger, particularly 6-shogaol and 6-gingerol, might help prevent degenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. “Oxidative stress and chronic inflammation may be key drivers of Alzheimer’s disease and age-related cognitive decline,” it explains.
A 2014 study revealed the antioxidants and bioactive compounds in ginger could inhibit inflammatory responses in the brain and prevent cognitive deterioration.
The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds contained in ginger are also thought to offer significant health advantages concerning cancer, though further research is required in this area.
Research published in the Cancer Prevention Research journal examined the effects of ginger on 20 people at elevated risk of bowel cancer. After consuming two grams of ginger daily for 28 days, the lining of the participants’ intestines showed fewer cancer-like alterations than anticipated.
Sexual Health Early research suggests that ginger may benefit sexual health, although more human studies are needed to confirm this. Animal studies have shown that ginger can increase testosterone levels, improve sexual behaviour, and enhance blood flow.
It’s no wonder then, that this common spice has been used as an aphrodisiac in traditional medicine for ages.