Ginger is among the most common ingredients worldwide, used as a spice and medicinal plant. While it is often used to treat coughs and the flu, among other ailments, you can also use this spice in various ways.
Ginger tea is a soothing beverage for your stomach, as it is super anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and packed with anti-microbial properties. So, what happens to your body when you drink ginger tea daily?
Improves digestion
Ginger tea is rich in gingerol, a bioactive compound that helps food move out of your stomach through the digestive system more efficiently. Ginger tea, especially after meals, helps keep your gut clean.
It also reduces fermentation in the gut, constipation, and other factors that contribute to abdominal bloating and gas.
Reduces inflammation
Ginger tea is a powerhouse of anti-inflammatory compounds like 6-shogaol, zingerone, and 8-shogaol – which stop the inflammatory response associated with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and other similar diseases.
Weight loss
Drinking ginger tea helps promote weight loss through various mechanisms, a few of which include inhibiting the absorption of intestinal fat, altering the body’s fat storage process, and helping control appetite as well.
Reduces nausea and vomiting
Ginger has the power to relieve upset stomach, which also reduces nausea and vomiting, which are mostly associated with motion sickness and pregnancy.
Are there any side effects of ginger tea?
While ginger tea has a host of benefits, there are a few side effects you may have, a few of which may include:
- Gastrointestinal discomfort or diarrhoea
- Acid reflux
- Heartburn
- Low blood pressure
- Pre-existing bleeding conditions
- Arrhythmia
- Allergies
Many times, ginger tea can also interfere with blood-thinning medicines, and so it is important to consult with your doctor if you are on chemotherapy or are pregnant.
How much ginger tea is good for you?
While there are no specific guidelines on how much ginger tea you should have daily, experts believe it is totally safe to have 3 to 4 grams of ginger in your everyday diet. A typical tea bag contains 1 to 2 grams of ginger. And if you love making your own cuppa, you can do it by:
- Peel fresh ginger and cut crosswise into a one-inch slice, which is around 2 grams.
- Put a slice in your teacup and fill with boiling water.
- Allow it to steep for at least 10 to 15 minutes.
- If you find the taste of ginger as too strong, feel free to add honey, lemon, or other flavours.