Ginger, belonging to the Zingiberaceae family along with turmeric and cardamom, has the scientific name Zingiber officinale and originated on the Asian continent.
Its use as a natural remedy dates back to China and India, and over the centuries, it spread to the rest of the world. Today, the ginger shotas it is known in English, is considered a wellness elixir, promoted by celebrities such as Anna Kendrick, Selena Gomez, Gisele Bündchen and Gwyneth Paltrow, who are enthusiasts of healthy living, which has increased searches for this product.
Thanks to its promotion of healthy living, searches for this product skyrocketed.
Photo:iStock
Dr. Liliana Papalia, specialist in clinical nutrition and obesity, points out: “I don’t think it is something that is trendy, but rather its use becomes more relevant at these times when the coldest seasons of the year are approaching, such as autumn. and winter that coincide with the times in which respiratory viruses circulate more.”
Benefits of ginger shot
Its benefits are diverse and well documented; Among the most notable are his anti-inflammatory propertiesprotective of health, promoting digestion and weight control.
In that sense, below we will present some benefits that ginger has:
1. Contributes to weight control
In 2020, the report ‘Ginger water reduces body weight gain and improves energy expenditure’ showed that ginger could prevent obesity and related conditionsalthough the results are still preliminary.
2. Protects against flu and colds
Dr. Papalia highlights that the compounds of gingerol and zingiberene in ginger are powerful inhibitors of the virus and have anti-inflammatory activity that can attenuate the effects of the cytokine storm, crucial for controlling the growth and activity of other cells of the immune system. This reduces cough and improves breathing and oxygen perfusion.
Benefits of ginger.
Photo:iStock
3. Strengthens the immune system
Adding lemon or orange juice to ginger can enhance its function, increasing the dose of vitamin C.
Mercedes Engeman, a graduate in Nutrition, adds that ginger relieves muscle and joint painbenefiting people with autoimmune disorders.
4. Improves digestion
According to the Cleveland Medical Institution, “there are certain enzymes in ginger that can help with bloating, relieve constipation and nausea. “If you have symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, this can help reduce them.”
Contraindications
Papalia warns about the risk of bleeding in anticoagulated patients and recommends that People with hypertension and pregnant women consult with their doctor before consuming gingerdue to possible unwanted effects on maternal-fetal health.
She summarizes: “Ginger should not be considered as a complete replacement for conventional medical treatments, but rather as a supplement that can help relieve some symptoms.”
How to prepare a ginger shot?
- A large piece of ginger.
- An Apple.
- Zest and juice of one lemon.
- Chop the ginger and apple into small pieces (no need to peel). Add to a blender with the lemon zest and juice.
- Mix well until thick, adding a splash of water if necessary.
- Pour over a strainer or kitchen towel. Squeeze all the liquid into a clean glass, jug, jar or bottle.
- Drink immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
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*This content was rewritten with the assistance of artificial intelligence, based on information from La Nación (GDA), and was reviewed by a journalist and an editor.
