Experts Say Consuming Ginger Regularly Has A Startling Impact On People's Health
Let's face it — ginger in its natural plant form isn't exactly the most appetizing food in the world. It's rough and earthy, and when you cut it open, you're greeted with an eye-watering level of spiciness that not everyone can handle. But as it turns out, you may want to start caring about the humble root-like plant. It isn't called a superfood for nothing! Researchers are only now realizing just how beneficial ginger can be to one's health, but as you'll see, ginger's story isn't black and white.
1. Staving off the plague
Ginger has been upheld as a superfood for much longer than you may think. For example, it’s believed Henry VIII ate the plant in hopes of warding off the plague! We know he’s not exactly a good role model for a healthy lifestyle, but it seems the English king was right about the potential health benefits of ginger.
2. Give your immune system a boost
Nowadays, scientists know much more about ginger's health benefits. According to Dr. Melinda Ratini of WebMD, the plant can actually strengthen our immune systems thanks to a component called gingerol. Obviously, the stronger your immune system is, the better off you'll be.
3. Powerful antioxidant
Gingerol is apparently responsible for giving the root its smell. It’s also an antioxidant, which is a quality you’ll find in other superfoods such as blueberries. Crucially, antioxidants combat free radicals, and they are needed to prevent considerable harm to your health. Can you believe that this gnarly pile of roots is actually good for you?
4. Fights diseases and aging
So what are "free radicals," anyway? Basically, they're atoms or molecules that aren’t paired with other electrons. This isn't good, as these solo atoms can increase your chances of getting sick. They can also force your body to show signs of aging earlier than you'd probably like! So it's a good thing ginger is chock-full of antioxidants.
