The idea of using ginger as a herbal remedy for health problems originated in China and India more than 5,000 years ago.
In modern Western culture, the superfood come in powders, teas, and shots, with evidence suggesting all these forms yield benefits for weight loss.
Despite being a flowering plant, ginger is mostly cultivated for its roots because it’s where the nutrients are concentrated.
“Ginger contains powerful compounds like gingerols and shogaols, which stimulate several biological activities in the body when consumed,” explains Healthline.
Ginger uses several mechanisms to support weight loss
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An experiment by the Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition found that regular consumption of raw ginger reduced body weight and waist-to-hip ratio, an indicator of fat around the waist.
In 2015, another study found that women who took two tablets of powdered ginger experienced significantly decreased appetite.
The superfoods can also be consumed as a tea, by following the next steps:
1. Chop up a small piece of the root
2. Place it in 150 ml of boiling water
3. Simmer for 5-10 minutes and strain before drinking
More research is needed before ginger can be used as a weight loss aid, however.
What’s more, consuming excess ginger can have undesirable side effects including heartburn, indigestion and diarrhoea.
“To maintain a healthy weight, follow a well-rounded diet that includes different fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats along with regular exercise,” advises MedicineNet.
The health body recommends bringing other superfoods like celery juice into the diet to support bodily functions.
“Celery juice may not directly cause fat loss, but it can be a great addition to a healthy diet that supports weight management,” it explained.
Naheed Ali, physician, nutritionist and senior medical and health writer at Sweat Block, lauds the benefits of spices like turmeric and cinnamon for weight loss.
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Making small lifestyle changes can make a big difference to the waistline
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He told GB News: “Specific spices like turmeric and cinnamon offer research-backed benefits for metabolism and weight management due to their impact on blood sugar regulation and inflammation.
“Adding just a pinch of these spices makes enhancing flavourful, functional snacks simple.
“Mix turmeric into hummus, blend cinnamon into smoothies or oatmeal and sprinkle either spice onto nut mixes or fruit for an antioxidants and anti-inflammatory kick.”
There is no concrete evidence to show that dietary additions alone can shed weight, but they may speed up results on the scales when coupled with other lifestyle changes.
Sarah Carter is a health and wellness expert residing in the UK. With a background in healthcare, she offers evidence-based advice on fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being, promoting healthier living for readers.
