10 Reasons Why Ginger Should Be A Staple In Your Diet This Winter & How To Consume It

Ginger is a flowering plant native to Southeast Asia that is widely known for its medicinal and culinary properties. The health benefits of ginger include its ability to aid digestion, reduce nausea, relieve pain and inflammation, improve cardiovascular health, and boost the immune system. Keep reading as we discuss in detail its many benefits and also share tips to help you incorporate ginger into your diet.

10 Health benefits of consuming ginger:

1. Boosts the immune system

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Ginger has strong antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help strengthen the immune system, making it more resistant to winter illnesses like cold and flu.

2. Relieves cold and flu symptoms

Ginger has natural decongestant properties that can help relieve cold and flu symptoms such as cough, sore throat, and congestion.

3. Soothes digestive issues

Ginger is known to help with digestive issues like indigestion, bloating, and nausea. It can also promote better absorption of nutrients from the food we consume.

4. Reduces inflammation

The gingerols present in ginger have anti-inflammatory effects that can help reduce inflammation in the body, relieving joint pain and muscle soreness often exacerbated during colder months.

5. Improves circulation

Ginger has the ability to warm up the body from within by improving blood circulation. This can help combat cold hands and feet, and prevent circulatory issues.

6. Supports weight loss

Ginger has been found to aid in weight loss by boosting metabolism and reducing appetite. It can also help regulate blood sugar levels, reducing cravings for unhealthy snacks during winter.

7. Relieves menstrual cramps

Ginger can effectively reduce menstrual pain and cramps due to its anti-inflammatory properties. It also has healing properties and can boost overall health.

8. Enhances brain function

Research suggests that ginger can improve cognitive function and memory, helping to combat the winter blues and seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

9. Fights respiratory infections

Ginger has been traditionally used to treat respiratory infections like bronchitis and asthma, as it helps to clear the respiratory passages and reduce inflammation.

10. Protects against winter allergies

Ginger has natural antihistamine properties that can help alleviate symptoms of winter allergies such as sneezing, itching, and congestion.

Incorporating ginger into your diet during winter can provide numerous health benefits, keeping you immune strong, digestion smooth, and body warm and nourished. Now let's see how you can add it to your diet.

Here are some ways in which ginger can be consumed to achieve the best health benefits:

1. Adding freshly grated or sliced ginger to various dishes like stir-fries, soups, curries, and salads can enhance flavour and provide health benefits.
2. Steeping fresh ginger slices or ginger powder in hot water creates a soothing, aromatic ginger tea. It can be consumed on its own or mixed with other herbs like chamomile or mint.
3. Extracting ginger juice by blending or grating ginger and straining it can be a concentrated way to consume ginger. It can be added to smoothies, juices, or even used as a marinade for meats.
4. Adding dried ginger powder to recipes, such as baked goods, smoothies, or homemade spice blends, can provide a convenient option to incorporate ginger.

Remember that individual health conditions and tolerance to ginger may vary, so it is important to start with small quantities and observe how your body reacts.

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.