Ginger is a root that has always been known for having medicinal properties. Of Eastern origin, this plant is grown mainly in China, although it is also very traditional to consume it in India. Over time, its use extends increasingly to more places in the world.
This root, whose original name is Zingiber officinale, has a spicy and aromatic flavor, so it is advisable to consume it in moderation and, in most cases, accompany other foods. It is a plant rich in essential oils, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and amino acids, which is why it gives benefits to the human body.
In this way, ginger is one of the best-known roots in traditional Chinese medicine. According to a study published in the Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand, this medicinal plant is a natural anti-inflammatory plant, so it helps to combat respiratory diseases, osteoarthritis, and digestive problems, among others. In addition, on some occasions, it also serves to slim down.
Ginger promotes weight loss, myth or reality?
According to a study published by The National Institute of Health in the United States, ginger has a thermogenic effect that acts and affects fat burning, eliminating saturated fat, especially in the abdomen.
Another study published in 2017 by the University of Agriculture of China, in which all the information up to that date was studied, came to the same conclusion as the American study: Ginger, among many other properties and benefits of ginger, has a thermogenic effect, which increases body temperature and accelerates metabolism.
That means, according to the Chinese study, that this plant helps burn more calories, so it would help the body lose weight. In addition, the same study corroborates that ginger generates a feeling of satiety, reduces hunger, favors the digestion of carbohydrates, and positively affects both cholesterol levels and blood pressure levels.
But the issue has caused much controversy, so another study published in the British Journal of Nutrition denies the benefits previously claimed for ginger.
In this way, ginger is a suitable food for diets, but that doesn’t mean that simply taking this plant in some meals can help slim down.
Ultimately, ginger, like many other foods, is good for slimming down because of its health benefits or healthy properties. However, it is not a miracle food, so to achieve weight loss, you have to follow a balanced diet. For example, a food binge will not be solved by taking ginger.
How to take ginger?
The most common way is to take it by combining it with infusions, juices, stir-fries, and creams, that is, using it as if it were a seasoning.
It’s also very common to take it before a meal to burn more calories. In this way, people dilute a couple of grams of ginger powder in a glass of warm water and take it before a meal.
More common is ginger infusion, which can be combined with lemon, cinnamon, or honey. This drink stimulates calorie burning, lightens heavy digestion, and combats bloating and gases, among other benefits.
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