Ginger is an ancient spice and herbal medicine that has been used for centuries to treat digestive issues, nausea, inflammation and more. Its medicinal properties come from natural compounds like gingerol, shogaol and zingibain. Consuming ginger daily provides a variety of health benefits that you may start to notice within just two weeks.
The Effects of Eating Ginger Every Day for 15 Days
Improved Digestion
One of the most well-known effects of ginger is its ability to boost digestion. It contains enzymes that help break down proteins and stimulate the production of saliva, bile and gastric juices.
Reduced Bloating and Gas
Within a week or two of eating ginger daily, most people notice less bloating and gas after eating meals. It helps speed up digestion, preventing undigested food from sitting in the intestines and causing discomfort. The carminative effect of ginger also helps expel gas from the digestive tract.
Relief from Constipation
Ginger acts as a natural laxative, helping contents move smoothly through the intestines for relief from constipation. It activates muscarinic receptors in the digestive tract to stimulate smooth muscle contraction and bowel motility. Most people find daily intake improves regularity within 1-2 weeks.
Decreased Nausea
Consuming ginger is also an effective remedy for nausea caused by various conditions. It works by enhancing gastric motility and emptying while acting directly on the brain and nervous system to reduce nausea signaling.
Morning Sickness Relief
Just 1 gram of ginger per day can significantly reduce nausea, vomiting and retching associated with morning sickness. The positive effects are normally noticed within four days but can be experienced in just two days.
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Motion Sickness Management
Ginger also minimizes nausea and vomiting triggered by motion sickness, especially seasickness, car sickness and air sickness. Having ginger capsules, candies or tea before traveling can prevent motion sickness in about two weeks.
Lowered Blood Sugar Levels
Several studies suggest ginger can lower blood sugar levels and manage symptoms of diabetes through a variety of mechanisms. It helps regulate insulin response by increasing insulin sensitivity and absorption while lowering insulin resistance.
Improved HbA1c
Some research shows consuming 3 grams of ginger powder per day for 30 days can lower HbA1c (average blood sugar levels) as effectively as the diabetes drug metformin. The HbA1c lowering effects may start to manifest within as little as two weeks.
Reduced Fasting Blood Sugar
Ginger also lowers fasting blood glucose in people with type 2 diabetes. Consistent daily ginger consumption for 15 days can help regulate and stabilize fasting blood sugar levels upon waking in the morning.
Decreased Inflammation
The potent anti-inflammatory compounds in ginger like gingerol and shogaol work to reduce inflammation throughout the body when consumed regularly.
Less Joint Pain
Research indicates people with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis who take ginger extract daily for two weeks experience 25-30% less pain and swelling in affected joints compared to a placebo group.
Decreased Muscle Soreness
Consuming ginger for 15 days can also minimize exercise-induced muscle pain. In one study, ginger capsules taken daily reduced muscle soreness after eccentric exercise by about 25% compared to placebo.
Is Eating Ginger Daily Safe?
For most people, eating moderate amounts of ginger daily for 15 days is safe and linked to numerous health benefits. However, there are some side effects to be aware of:
- Heartburn – Can be caused by ginger’s effect on gastric acid secretion
- Diarrhea – Large doses may cause loose stools or diarrhea
- Mouth Irritation – Oral ginger supplements may irritate the mouth
- Drug Interactions – May interact negatively with blood thinners and diabetes medications
Always start with small doses of ginger like 1 gram per day to assess your tolerance. Avoid taking ginger if you have a bleeding disorder or are scheduled for surgery in the next two weeks. Speak to your healthcare provider before taking ginger supplements if you take any medications or have a medical condition.
Tips for Getting Your Daily Ginger Intake
Here are some simple tips to get at least 1-2 grams of it in your diet every day:
- Add ginger slices or shavings to green smoothies, juices, oatmeal or yogurt
- Sprinkle ground ginger powder onto stir fries, soups, curries and other savory dishes
- Take ginger extract capsules or tablets with a glass of water
- Sip on ginger tea either hot or iced throughout the day
- Mix fresh juice with lemon and honey for an immunity boosting tonic
- Make pickled or candied ginger to satisfy sweet cravings
Enjoying it daily is an easy way to boost your overall health. Within just 15 days, you may start noticing improvements in digestion, immunity, inflammation, blood sugar levels and more!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much ginger should I eat per day to get the benefits?
Most research shows benefits from 1-3 grams of ginger per day, or roughly 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger powder. Start with 1 gram (1/4 tsp) and increase slowly to avoid digestive side effects.
Does cooked, dried and ground ginger work the same as fresh?
Yes, dried, ground and cooked ginger root contains the same active components. Ground ginger powder is very convenient for getting daily intake. Fresh root of it is easiest to tolerate though for people prone to heartburn.
When is the best time to eat?
The best time depends on your goal. For digestion and nausea, eat it before meals. To boost immunity, upon waking or before bed is ideal. For arthritis pain and inflammation, scheduling doses throughout the day works well.
What’s the most effective way to take its supplements?
Standardized ginger extract capsules or tablets deliver consistent dosing of active ginger compounds. However, powder, tea, juice and foods allow you to adjust the strength and dose as needed.
How long do I need to take ginger to notice benefits?
Most people notice improved digestion, decreased nausea and reduced inflammation within 1-2 weeks of daily ginger consumption. Blood sugar lowering effects may take 2-3 weeks. For long term benefits, continue taking ginger regularly.