A BALITA reader asked: What are the benefits of ginger on inflammation?
Most Filipinos are very fond of ginger! I, myself, love salabat tea with a touch of honey, not just when I’m feeling under the weather, but also during cold, winter days.
In the Philippines and most countries in Asia, ginger is steeped into hot teas, incorporated as a spice in savoury dishes or pickled to compliment other foods, like sushi.
This is a very good question, but first, let us find out the true meaning of inflammation. Inflammation itself is a huge scope but in general, it is one of the body’s responses to environmental stimuli that are foreign or not normal. For example, cuts on the skin can become inflamed when bacteria infects an open area. This is considered acute inflammation. Inflammation, may it be from simple cuts to inflammation of joints, muscles, and blood vessels involve the same physiological pathways in the body. The difference is that long-term exposure to stressors can potentially disable the body’s natural regulation of inflammation. This means that the body is in a ‘constant’ inflamed state, which is then considered as chronic inflammation. More than often, we may not be able to feel or see inflammation inside our bodies – for example when blood vessels or internal organs are inflamed. Many diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, certain types of cancers and even type 2 diabetes have been said to be rooted from chronic inflammation.
The benefits of ginger have been studied extensively, however, there are both positive and inconclusive results. These results are often hard to decipher due to variations in study designs. For example, some studies focus on the effects of ginger on humans and others on animals. Others look at the effects of consuming whole ginger versus powdered ginger or ginger extract.
Studies have shown that ginger can alleviate feelings of nausea and gastro-intestinal distress, as well as lower blood pressure and blood glucose levels. It also has blood-thinning effects. A few studies have concluded that ginger has the same pain-relieving effects as ibuprofen when it comes to arthritis and acute joint pains. However, it is still unclear how much ginger and in what form should be consumed in a day to achieve these benefits.1
Consult your physician if you are worried about inflammation or are suffering from chronic pain, or are planning to take ginger supplements. There are more benefits than there are risks with including ginger in your diet. But like all foods, it must be consumed in moderation. People who are taking blood-thinning medications should be cautious of taking ginger. In addition, depending on their level of tolerance, some individuals may experience gastrointestinal discomfort or nausea upon ingesting it.
There are many factors that contribute to inflammation, and although certain foods may alleviate it, finding the root cause may solve the problem. Food such as ginger may contribute to decreasing inflammation, but the overall diet and lifestyle can prevent it. A diet comprised of antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables and a lifestyle that keeps BMI within normal range through regular physical activity can prevent inflammation.