It is known about the positive effect of ginger on the immune system and human well-being. But this food also has negative sides, so you need to know how to properly eat ginger.
Useful properties of ginger
First you need to figure out what ginger is. The full name of this plant is medicinal ginger, sometimes it is called pharmacy. It is a perennial herb. It is not the stalk of ginger and not its fruits that is used for food, but the rhizome. It is it that contains many essential oils that give the product a peculiar smell and taste.
The chemical composition of the ginger rhizome is very rich. The unique substance that gives the plant such a spicy flavor is called gingerol. This oil has the strongest antibacterial and disinfectant properties. Despite the high content of natural oils, the plant is low in calories - only 80 calories per 100 grams.
Vitamin C occupies a special place among all vitamins, because it is he who helps to strengthen the immune system and fight infections. Its content in the rhizome is 5 mg per 100 grams of product. In addition, ginger contains a variety of B vitamins to help the nervous system, with B4 levels as high as 29 mg. Among the micro and macro elements, potassium, calcium, magnesium and sodium reach the highest content per 100 grams.
Contraindications
Under no circumstances should ginger root and products containing it be consumed on an empty stomach. The warming and burning effect of essential oils can play a trick on an empty gastrointestinal tract, leading to health problems. You can not include ginger in the diet for people with gastrointestinal diseases: ulcers, gastritis. The first time you use ginger, you need to be careful, as allergic reactions are possible.
Sweet ginger tea can increase blood pressure, so people with hypertension and any other heart disease should drink it with caution. It is better to consult a doctor before use.
How to consume ginger
The most popular way to consume ginger rhizome is to add it to various drinks. It can be used to brew a hot, warming tea, ideal for winter evenings, or a cold refreshing lemonade for summer.
Dried ground ginger is often found on store shelves. As such, it is added to baked goods, most often to the famous gingerbread cookies traditionally prepared for Christmas.
Ginger makes a delicious jam. You can cook it only from the rhizome, or you can add oranges or other fruits to it, then the taste will become a little softer and even tastier.
Lovers of sushi and rolls know that ginger marinated in vinegar and sugar is traditionally served with these dishes. In this form, it is eaten in order to interrupt the taste from the previous roll and fully experience the taste and aroma of the next one.
Thus, ginger is a versatile product that will help diversify your diet in both winter and summer. There are a lot of options for its preparation, but do not forget about precautions and do not abuse this medicinal product.
