7 powerful reasons to take a ginger and turmeric shot every day
Discover the top 7 health benefits of taking a ginger and turmeric shot every day. Boost your immunity, reduce inflammation, and improve digestion with this powerful, natural remedy
Incorporating ginger and turmeric into your daily routine can be a game-changer for your health. Packed with anti-inflammatory properties, antioxidants, and immune-boosting benefits, these two powerhouse ingredients offer a wide range of wellness advantages. Whether you're looking to enhance digestion, fight inflammation, or boost your immunity, a ginger and turmeric shot is an easy and effective way to reap these benefits. Here are seven compelling reasons why you should make this healthy habit part of your daily routine.
1. Antioxidant effects
Antioxidants are substances that help protect the body from oxidative stress, which happens when free radicals outnumber antioxidants. Free radicals are unstable molecules that contain at least one unpaired electron.
If oxidative stress persists over time, it may contribute to the development of conditions like diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and certain cancers. Both ginger and turmeric are rich in antioxidant compounds, such as gingerol, shogaol, and curcumin. Research indicates that these spices may have even stronger antioxidant effects when used together.
2. Reduces inflammation
Inflammation is a natural part of the body’s healing process, but when it becomes chronic, it can contribute to various health problems, including:
- Autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis
- Depression
- Type 2 diabetes
- Parkinson’s disease
- Certain cancers
- High blood pressure and heart disease
- Gastrointestinal issues such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis
- Respiratory conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
The antioxidants found in ginger and turmeric have powerful anti-inflammatory effects that may help prevent chronic inflammation.
A study on animal cells showed that shogaols from ginger and curcumin from turmeric are key compounds in reducing inflammation. However, further research is needed to confirm if these effects are also seen in humans.
3. Boosts immunity
The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of ginger and turmeric may play a key role in supporting a healthy immune system.
Both ginger and curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, also have potent antimicrobial effects, helping to fight off and prevent bacterial growth. These two spices have long been used as natural remedies for colds.
Early research indicates that ginger extracts may help prevent colds, alleviate sore throats, and reduce congestion. Curcumin may also enhance the function of white blood cells, boosting your body’s natural immune defenses.
Many ginger and curcumin shots also contain oranges, which are rich in vitamin C, further supporting immune health.
4. Reduces chronic pain
The anti-inflammatory properties of ginger and turmeric can help alleviate pain associated with inflammation.
A study involving 60 individuals with knee osteoarthritis compared the effects of turmeric extract, black pepper, and ginger to the painkiller Aleve (naproxen). The results showed that this herbal combination was just as effective as Aleve in reducing pain and inflammation when taken twice daily for four weeks.
One ginger and turmeric shot may give you great health benefits. Photo: Health
5. Improves nausea and digestive health
Ginger has long been used to treat nausea caused by chemotherapy, morning sickness, surgery, and motion sickness. This benefit is likely due to compounds in ginger, such as gingerols and shogaols, which help speed up stomach emptying and improve digestion.
Turmeric may also aid in relieving acid reflux. A study found that curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, could be as effective as Prilosec (omeprazole), a commonly used proton pump inhibitor (PPI) for treating the condition.
However, it's important to note that consuming ginger and turmeric shots with large amounts of turmeric may actually worsen nausea.
6. Supports heart health
Ginger and turmeric shots may support heart health by reducing inflammation, a key factor linked to heart disease.
A study showed that consuming 2-4 grams of fresh ginger daily can help lower blood pressure, which is a major risk factor for heart disease.
Additionally, an observational study found that individuals who consumed turmeric had a significantly lower risk of dying from heart disease. Turmeric may also help prevent or slow the progression of atherosclerosis, the buildup of plaque in the arteries. As plaque accumulates, it narrows the arteries, reducing blood flow, and increasing the risk of chest pain or heart attack.
7. May promote weight loss
Emerging research suggests that ginger may aid in weight loss. A review of randomized controlled trials found that taking 2 grams of ginger supplements daily for more than eight weeks was most effective for weight loss. This dosage is higher than what is typically found in turmeric and ginger shots.
Test tube and animal studies have indicated that curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, may support weight loss in multiple ways. It can induce the death of developing fat cells and prevent the formation of new ones. Additionally, curcumin may help boost metabolism and improve insulin resistance. However, more human studies are necessary to confirm these findings.
Turmeric and ginger shots are generally safe in moderation, but large doses may increase the risk of bleeding, especially when taken with blood-thinning medications. People on blood sugar-lowering medications should consult a healthcare provider, as these spices may lower blood sugar. High doses may also cause digestive discomfort, including heartburn, nausea, and diarrhea.