How Can Ginger Affect Your Diet?

Ginger is the thick, knobbly underground stem of the plant Zingiber officinale. You can buy it fresh or dried, as a tincture, capsule or oil. Asian, Indian and Arab countries have used it as a herbal medicine for centuries to treat conditions such as nausea and digestive upsets. Ginger is also used in the treatment of arthritis, heart conditions and cold and flu symptoms, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. It has even been used throughout history in an attempt to ward off plague.

Culinary Uses of Ginger

For culinary purposes, ginger can be used fresh, dried, powdered, preserved, crystallized or pickled. It has a fiery taste and is commonly used in curries and chutneys, and in baking to add spice. In English pubs in the 19th century it is reputed to have been sprinkled into beer. This preference may later have led to the production of ginger ale.

Possible Dietary Benefits

Ginger may be beneficial for inclusion in a healthy diet. Among its reputed therapeutic properties is its ability to stimulate circulation of the blood, remove toxins from the body, cleanse the bowels and kidneys and nourish the skin. It is also recommended by health practitioners to treat rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and joint and muscle pain.

Evidence So Far

According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, studies suggest that short-term use of ginger can relieve nausea and vomiting related to pregnancy. Results are mixed on whether it is beneficial in treating motion sickness, or nausea caused by chemotherapy or surgery. Investigation is still on-going as to the use of ginger supplements in the diet as an aid to general health, as an anti-inflammatory and in the treatment of joint and bone conditions.

Nutritional Facts

Raw ginger is high in potassium and also contains smaller amounts of phosphorous, magnesium, calcium and sodium, as well as vitamin C and the B vitamin folate. Potassium is important for maintaining the correct fluid balance in the body as well as regulating the heart beat; vitamin C is an antioxidant which supports immune function; folate is required to promote normal digestion.

Ginger and Weight Loss

Ginger and other spices, such as cumin, chili and turmeric, may aid in weight loss by boosting metabolism. Researchers at Maastricht University have found that ginger boosts metabolism, burns fat and increases feelings of satiety, according to a report published in "Biotech Business Week." The researchers are hopeful that early results show promise for ginger's role in treating obesity.