I Drink A Ginger Shot Every Morning – Here Are All The Benefits
As a beauty editor, I’ve tried pretty much every morning routine you can think of. While few have stood the test of time, there’s one that I really do swear by: a daily ginger shot.
Originally, I only used the little immune booster when I felt a cold coming on, but now, the ginger shot has found a permanent place in my daily routine. In fact, I’m so impressed by the results that I firmly believe everyone should do it – it’s easily up there with lemon water and apple cider vinegar.
5 benefits of taking a ginger shot every day
There are multiple benefits to consuming ginger – especially if you do it every day. “Ginger looks so inconspicuous from the outside, but it hides a wide range of medically effective ingredients inside,” explains Dr Roman Huber, head of the University Center for Naturopathy in Freiburg. “It’s a remedy that is often used in naturopathy.”
Ginger stabilises blood sugar
Food cravings and midday slumps are common side effects of unbalanced blood sugar – and we all know how unpleasant those can be. Ginger works to stabilise insulin: it supports glucose uptake into cells and increases insulin.
Studies show that ginger helps support muscle tissue to take up glucose, meaning lower, more stable blood sugar. This specific property of ginger is currently being researched as a therapeutic approach for people with Type 2 diabetes.
Controlling blood sugar spikes and crashes throughout the day is important – not only for managing our weight but because it helps us to maintain consistent energy levels, feel less tired and help with mood regulation.
Ginger boosts the immune system
In Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine, ginger has long been used as a remedy. Today, ready-made ginger shots in the supermarket attract people with promises of being “immune boosting” – and, rightly so.
Ginger is rich in iron, magnesium, vitamins B6 and C, zinc and antioxidants that help protect cells from damage. It also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and stimulates blood circulation in the mucous membranes, which helps the respiratory system to flush out toxins. All of this adds up to supporting the immune system in a significant way.
Ginger shots improve energy levels
The key reason that I drink a ginger shot every day is the boost in energy levels.
Because ginger stabilises blood sugar, along with helping with the efficient absorption of nutrients like vitamins and minerals, it supports consistent, reliable energy levels. When insulin remains in check, responding appropriately to food and movement, we have more energy, feel less tired and experience more stability in our moods.
Ginger has an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant effect
Gingerol and shogaol are the two main groups of bioactive pungent substances in ginger. They provide the typical spiced taste, but can do much more, thanks to their strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This can help provide relief for arthritis, metabolic disorders, muscle pain and digestive problems.
Ginger aids digestion
Ginger also has an effect on the stomach and intestines.