According to science, this food could be the miracle cure for stomach pain and nausea
Fresh, powdered, candied or even infused, ginger can be consumed in various forms and is becoming increasingly popular. Originally from Asia, it is the rhizome (underground stem) of a tropical plant that has been used since ancient times as both a spice and a natural remedy. And although its strong taste is sometimes controversial, scientists confirm: it has real benefits for our stomach, provided we choose it wisely. The experts take stock.
If ginger has been used as a miracle cure since the beginning of time, it is not for nothing. This Asian spice contains two compounds: gingerol and shogaol. These natural chemical substances give it its taste and concentrate antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can form a real barrier in the intestines and brain. You allow “to prevent the vomiting center in the brain from being activated,” explains researcher and nutritionist Megan Crichton, in a study from 2022 about ginger and its benefits.
More effective stomach work
In another work, scientists conducted the test on pregnant women or women receiving chemotherapy. By grouping
Five databases established since 2021They found that at dosages between 0.5 and 3 g per day in capsule form, ginger helped relieve the feeling of distress caused by nausea, even when “it had no significant effect on the frequency of vomiting.“, says Dr. Paudel, leader of the study. The effect of ginger on the stomach is therefore undeniable, but analyzes still need to be carried out to find out more.
And that’s not all: ginger also has an effect on digestion. Oxford University researchers did the test on 24 healthy volunteers. Some swallowed 1.2g of ginger and others a placebo before eating a light soup. At the end of the meal, thanks to the more active gastric contractions with the ginger, the stomach emptied twice as quickly, in thirteen minutes instead of about twenty-seven. This miracle root would therefore have increased gastric motility by helping the stomach work more efficiently.
In the form of tea, nutritional supplements…
An effective solution to stomach pain, provided you choose it wisely! There are several options available to you: you can drink it in tea or lemonade, or even take it as a dietary supplement if you are not a big fan of its atypical taste. And it is this last option that experts recommend for better efficiency. “ These supplements provide a more regular dosage than raw ginger or foods and drinks that contain it “explains gastroenterologist Joshua Forman New York Times. For chronic complaints such as morning sickness or stomach pain, he recommends 500 milligrams twice a day.
In comparison, lemonade or even ginger chocolate are usually significantly less concentrated. Researcher Megan Crichton observed this clearly during her research: you would need to consume almost 100g of candied ginger to get the same dose of ginger as a simple 300mg supplement. And be careful with teas, which are sometimes only “flavored” and, contrary to the packaging label, do not contain a gram of ginger. So remember to turn the package over and check the ingredients list!
When it comes to optimal effectiveness, dietary supplements are clearly at the top. But be careful: If you are taking medication (anticoagulants, immunosuppressants, antihypertension or diabetes medications), always consult your doctor before taking them regularly, advises Dr. Crichton. Although side effects are rare, some people find that they tend to burp a little more than usual after taking it. It’s not very glamorous, but it’s nothing to worry about!
As you can see, ginger can really calm your stomach and relieve those annoying everyday ailments. Now all you have to do is choose the shape that suits you best!
