By Dr. P. Gould, BDO Medical Contributor
Originally from Southeast Asia, the ginger plant is common in food and medicine around the world. It is rich in natural chemicals that can literally help fight off disease from the inside out. Little do people know, this simple root added to water can help heal so many things, like:
Reduces Inflammation & boost immunity
Ginger contains high amounts of phytonutrients. These antioxidant-like compounds may help counteract chronic inflammation, a physiological state where your body’s cells stay on high alert due to a lingering or past threat. That response mechanism isn’t always bad, but it can occasionally go awry and get hyperactive. Over time, this may play a big part in the development of diseases like arthritis and cancer.
Improves digestion
Drinking a glass of ginger water every day can help strengthen your digestive system and prevent indigestion, nausea, and heartburn. A teaspoon of mint juice, lemon juice and a tablespoon of honey mixed with ginger water can relieve morning sickness during pregnancy.
Here’s a quick recipe:
1 large lemon (rinsed)
1 2-inch piece fresh ginger (rinsed, peeling optional) — this is key for the amount of water you use. Add more or less if if you increase or decrease the amount of water
1 dash ground turmeric
2 cups water (some use boiling water, that’s optional)
Muscle reliever
When you exercise, your muscles are put to work and may get tired. One way to help accelerate muscle recuperation is to drink a glass of ginger water.
Protects Against Alzheimer’s
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects the central nervous system. It has been proven scientifically that ginger helps slow down the degradation of brain cells. Researchers have also found that the antioxidants and powerful compounds in ginger fight inflammatory responses that occur in the brain.
Kickstarts Weight Loss
High blood sugar levels can induce hunger and lead to overeating. Ginger water regulates the blood sugar levels and subsequently, controls the urge to eat. It improves the fat absorbing ability of the body which helps in weight loss.
Cleans Your Kidneys
Drinking ginger-lemon water is known to reduce the risk of kidney damage and even lowers the effects of diabetes. The pungent root is a rich source of zinc that plays a big role in the secretion of insulin
How to Make Ginger Water
To make ginger water, simply grate a two inch piece of ginger root in three cups of warm water. Add the juice from one lemon, and stir in raw honey to taste.
Enjoy the beverage at several points throughout the day to take full advantage of its benefits. The combination of ginger, lemon, and raw honey gives your body a tremendous boost,