There are many ways to enjoy ginger, from making ginger water or tea, to adding it to salads, stir-fries, soups or desserts
During winter, products for colds and flu soar in demand but there are small changes we can make to help combat this.
Incorporating more ginger into your diet is massively beneficial because it is an ingredient that is packed with nutrition and boasts a large number of health benefits. Head of Culinary at HelloFresh Ireland, Hannah Duxberry says:
“In most Eastern cultures, ginger is a staple food with thousands of years of history for its medicinal properties. It’s an incredibly nutrient dense food and is arguably the healthiest spice on the planet.”
Here are some of the reasons why we should all eat more ginger:
Fights flu
One of ginger’s most prominent benefits is its ability to ease cold and flu symptoms. Hannah notes: “Gingerol is a natural oil found in ginger – it is linked to most of ginger’s medicinal benefits. One of those is aiding with anti-inflammatory which can help relieve discomfort caused by flu or a sore throat.”
Builds your immune system
Aside from relieving flu symptoms, research suggests that consuming ginger regularly can help prevent a cold or flu as it is packed with antioxidants that may help boost your immune system.
Gas and digestion relief
The compound gingerol can also help with gut wellness. “Ginger can support gastrointestinal motility,” Hannah explains.
“In layman’s terms, this means that it helps food move through your digestive system, which can reduce bloating. Ginger accelerates the rate at which food exits the stomach, aids in the breakdown and assimilation processes, and helps alleviate gases that form in the intestinal tract.”
Energy increase
Do you need a little boost this autumn? Hannah says: “Ginger is a great alternative to coffee or energy drinks as incorporating it into your diet may have many cognitive benefits, including increased concentration and focus, making you feel more alert and energised.”
Aids sleep
Hannah highlights: “There are also studies that suggest that ginger can increase serotonin and dopamine levels, as well as being able to help with sleeping disorders, such as insomnia. It’s completely caffeine free too and can be added to teas and other hot drinks – it’s a complete win-win.”
