This Is What Happens When You Eat Too Much Ginger

If you're like a lot of people, you might have fond memories of your mother bringing you a nice, soothing glass of ginger ale or a mug of ginger tea to drink when you were sick as a child. As it turns out, that was a smart move on the part of moms everywhere. One of the main ingredients in ginger ale is ginger, which is commonly recommended to help ease stomach issues and aid in digestion, and can help relieve many complaints. 

Ginger is a root that originated in Southeast Asia, and was cultivated and sold to neighboring regions as far back as the 1st century for its flavor and medicinal properties, according to Britannica. It has been proven to ease the effects of even serious nausea, including chemotherapy-induced illness, and it has shown to be particularly effective against pregnancy morning sickness, per Healthline. While ginger is safe and effective for most people, in rare cases it may contribute to birth problems if too large a quantity is taken during pregnancy. Women should always be cautious and consult with their doctors before consuming anything new while pregnant.

While ginger root is best known for its stomach-comforting properties, it may have even more health benefits. According to a study published in Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, posted by the National Library of Medicine, ginger has been shown to be an effective weight loss supplement. Participants who consumed ginger reduced their body weight and lowered their blood insulin levels. The root also contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce stress on the body and may help contribute to weight loss.

Ginger has also been shown to lower fasting blood sugar and may be beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes. Because of this effect on blood sugar, diabetics or people with hypoglycemia should avoid consuming large quantities of ginger, because a potentially dangerous drop in blood sugar may occur. Caution should also be taken if you are eating too much fresh ginger, which can cause mouth irritation, heartburn, or bloating, according to Livestrong. In extreme cases, it may cause intentional blockages, and is not recommended for people who suffer from ulcers or intestinal problems.

Like many dietary supplements, ginger can have many beneficial health properties, but it is not always healthy in large quantities. It is a good idea to be mindful of the amount of ginger in your diet. If you are in doubt, consult your physician before taking any supplement.