ginger Archives - Amazing Health Advances

10 Extraordinary Health Benefits of Ginger You Need to Know

The AHA! Team — Mon, 11 Aug 2025 05:58:31 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – Ginger has long been recognized as a flavorful and versatile herb in the kitchen. But you may be surprised to learn that it also has many benefits beyond your favorite culinary creations. If you have ever taken ginger ale to relieve an upset stomach, you probably have some inkling about its effectiveness as a natural remedy. But you would probably be surprised to discover that settling a queasy stomach is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the many health benefits associated with this extraordinary herb. Ginger has powerful healing properties It is well-researched, with studies supporting a long list of traditional uses passed down for generations. The use of ginger may support a broad array of antibacterial, antioxidant, and even antiparasitic effects. It has also been credited as an anti-inflammatory agent, opening the door for its potential use in treating many chronic illnesses. Ginger can be consumed fresh, dried, or in extract form. It can also be made with tea or as a supplement. Here are just 10 of the many beneficial uses for this versatile herb: 1. Normalize blood circulation Because it contains the minerals zinc, magnesium, and chromium – which help to improve blood flow – ginger is known for helping to support normal blood circulation. It may also aid in preventing chills, fever, and excessive sweating. In addition, there is evidence from one study that ginger could aid in preventing a heart attack. 2. Prevention of colon cancer According to a University of Minnesota study, the same substance that gives ginger its distinctive flavor appears to play a role in inhibiting the growth of human colorectal cancer cells. The research results strongly suggest ginger compounds may help combat colorectal carcinomas. Other studies have suggested ginger is effective in the battle against several other aggressive cancers, including cancers of the lung, ovaries, breast, pancreatic, prostate, and skin carcinoma. 3. Diabetes prevention There is evidence that ginger may play a role in diabetes prevention. Recent studies have found that ginger is beneficial in preventing and treating the disease, along with its ability to lower blood sugar, fats, and cholesterol. Research also supports the use of ginger for lessening the complications of diabetes and reducing bodily damage caused by the disease. 4. Natural antibiotic There are many reasons to avoid the overuse of antibiotics, from the risk of antibiotic-resistant bacteria to the need to maintain healthy intestinal bacteria. Ginger appears to offer a healthier alternative, exhibiting effective antibiotic action. Again, research also supports using ginger as an antibacterial against respiratory and periodontal infections. 5. Anti-inflammatory Many chronic diseases that are the most prevalent in today’s society can be traced to inflammation. Research has shown that ginger can be very helpful in managing the symptoms of chronic illness. It has also been shown to have the ability to inhibit nitrous oxide production and pro-inflammatory cytokines, which may affect neurodegenerative diseases. Lessening inflammation could make ginger useful in treating arthritis, prostate disease, cancer prevention, and general inflammation. 6. Detoxification The toxins and impurities in today’s environment are at war with our bodies on a daily basis. Pesticides, pharmaceuticals, GMOs, bacteria, pollutants, EMFs, and the effects of processed food all contribute to diminishing health and aging. However, studies suggest ginger has a preventive effect on many toxins, lessening their toll on the human body. 7. Relief from nausea and gastric distress Your grandmother was right when she served you that old fashion ginger ale for an upset stomach. Research supports the idea that you can alleviate nausea and gastric distress. This herb can also promote a healthy intestinal environment and contains an anti-spasmodic agent to relieve the pain of gastric distress. Other benefits include the relief of motion sickness, nausea, morning sickness and the prevention of ulcers. 8. Protection from radiation Research has shown that you can reduce the negative effects of radiation. For example, some studies suggest that the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties can help to protect against radiation-induced damage to various tissues, including the kidneys, by lowering the risk of oxidative stress and inflammation. 9. Menstrual pain relief A double-blind study found ginger to be as effective at relieving menstrual pain as common over-the-counter remedies, such as ibuprofen. 10. Reduced arthritic pain Studies have shown that ginger is just as effective as commonly prescribed pharmaceuticals at relieving pain due to inflammation of gout, rheumatoid arthritis, and osteoarthritis. There is evidence it may be even more effective. How to easily incorporate plant medicine into your diet Adding this herb to your daily routine doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s one of the most versatile herbs for sweet and savory dishes. Whether you prefer fresh, dried, powdered, or extract form, there are plenty of simple ways to enjoy its benefits. Start your day with ginger tea. A warm cup in the morning can help wake up your digestion and support overall wellness. Steep fresh slices of this herb in hot water, or use a tea bag for convenience. Blend it into smoothies: Fresh or powdered form of this herb adds a spicy kick to your favorite smoothie and offers digestive and anti-inflammatory benefits. Try pairing it with citrus fruits, carrots, or turmeric for a powerful nutrient boost. Use it in cooking: Grate fresh ginger into stir-fries, soups, and curries for a burst of flavor and health benefits. It also works well in marinades and salad dressings. Bake with it: This herb can add warmth to baked goods like muffins, cookies, and breads. Combine it with cinnamon and nutmeg for a comforting, aromatic treat. Enjoy ginger shots: For a concentrated dose of ginger’s goodness, try blending this fresh herb with lemon juice and honey for an energizing shot. Make ginger-infused water: Drop a few slices of this herb into your water bottle for a refreshing, subtly spiced drink throughout the day. Sprinkle ginger powder: For an easy way to include this herb in your diet, add a pinch to oatmeal, yogurt, or even your morning coffee. By incorporating ginger into your meals and drinks, you’ll enhance the flavor of your food and reap the many health benefits this powerful herb offers. Enjoy! Sources for this article include: NIH.gov NIH.gov NIH.gov Medicalnewstoday.com To read the original article click here.

The post 10 Extraordinary Health Benefits of Ginger You Need to Know appeared first on Amazing Health Advances.

Lemon-Ginger Cooler Recipe

The AHA! Team — Fri, 30 May 2025 05:34:03 +0000

Recipe by: Ayla Sadler via Dr. Michael Greger & Robin Robertson – Lemon-Ginger Cooler Recipe Recipe by: Dr. Michael Greger & Robin Robertson from The How Not to Die Cookbook You can also serve this scintillating beverage as a hot tea. PREP TIME: 5 min COOK TIME: 40 min TOTAL TIME: 45 min COURSE: Drinks DIFFICULTY: Easy SERVINGS: 2 Ingredients ▢ 2-inch piece fresh ginger sliced ▢ 2 tablespoons lemon juice ▢ 4-inch piece cinnamon stick (optional) ▢ Date Syrup to taste ▢ mint, for serving (optional) Instructions Combine 4 cups (945 ml) of water with the ginger in a large saucepan and bring to a boil. Remove from the heat. Add the lemon and cinnamon stick (if using) and set aside for 30 minutes Sweeten to taste with Date Syrup (if using). Refrigerate until chilled. Serve in a tall glass over ice. Add mint if you’re in the mood. To read the original article click here.

The post Lemon-Ginger Cooler Recipe appeared first on Amazing Health Advances.

Gluten-Free Gingerbread Cookies Recipe (Better Than the Original)

The AHA! Team — Mon, 16 Dec 2024 06:46:05 +0000

Recipe by: Dr. Josh Axe, DC, DNM, CN – Gluten-Free Gingerbread Cookies Recipe Gingerbread is a staple when it comes to holiday treats. The warm spices and sweetness from blackstrap molasses bring a delightful addition to your Christmas cookie collection. These gluten-free gingerbread cookies are perfect to add to your holiday traditions while packing some nutritional punch. COURSE: Dessert DIFFICULTY: Easy SERVINGS: 24 Ingredients ▢1 cup cashew butter ▢½ cup maple syrup ▢¼ cup blackstrap molasses ▢1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger ▢1 egg ▢1 teaspoon vanilla extract ▢1 teaspoon cinnamon ▢1 teaspoon ground ginger ▢½ teaspoon sea salt ▢⅓ cup coconut flour (or almond flour) ▢arrowroot starch, for dusting (optional)* Instructions Preheat oven to 350 F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. In a large mixing bowl, add in cashew butter, maple syrup, blackstrap molasses, fresh ginger, egg, vanilla extract, cinnamon, ground ginger and sea salt. Stir until well combined. Add in coconut flour and mix well again. Use a tablespoon to measure out the dough for each cookie. Bake for 12–15 minutes. Remove from oven and dust cookies with arrowroot starch for added effect, if desired. Notes If you want to make a gingerbread man, roll out some of the dough onto the baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes. Remove from oven, use a gingerbread man cookie cutter to cut out the shape, and place back in the oven to bake for a couple more minutes. Prep Time: 10 min Cook Time: 15 min To read the original article, which includes thorough directions with visual examples, click here.

The post Gluten-Free Gingerbread Cookies Recipe (Better Than the Original) appeared first on Amazing Health Advances.

Gut-Boosting Pumpkin and Ginger Soup Recipe

The AHA! Team — Mon, 04 Nov 2024 06:48:35 +0000

Recipe by: Dr. Colbert’s Gut Zone Diet – Gut-Boosting Pumpkin and Ginger Soup Recipe Pumpkin is a seasonal favorite in the fall and an excellent source of fiber and antioxidants, making it a great choice for gut health. Combined with ginger and Divine Health’s Collagen Powder, this soup becomes a soothing and nourishing meal for your digestive system. COURSE: Main Course DIFFICULTY: Easy SERVINGS: 4 INGREDIENTS ▢1 small pumpkin or 2 cups pumpkin puree ▢1 tbsp olive oil ▢1 onion, chopped ▢2 garlic cloves, minced ▢1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated ▢4 cups water or broth ▢2 tbsp Divine Health Collagen Powder ▢1 tsp turmeric ▢Sea salt and pepper to taste ▢Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish INSTRUCTIONS If using a fresh pumpkin, cut it in half, remove the seeds, and roast at 400°F for 30 minutes or until soft. Scoop out the flesh. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until soft. Stir in ginger, turmeric, and roasted pumpkin (or pumpkin puree), and cook for 2-3 minutes. Add water or broth, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. Stir in Divine Health Collagen Powder and blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender. Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh herbs. Serve warm. As the fall season brings cooler temperatures, it’s the perfect time to cozy up with nourishing soups and broths that not only comfort but also heal the gut. By incorporating ingredients like Divine Health’s Collagen Powder, garlic, ginger, and leafy greens, you can support your digestive system, improve immunity, and reduce inflammation—all while enjoying the delicious flavors of fall. Try these gut-boosting soups as part of Dr. Colbert’s Gut Zone Diet, and experience the benefits of a healthier, happier gut this season. To read the original article click here.

The post Gut-Boosting Pumpkin and Ginger Soup Recipe appeared first on Amazing Health Advances.

Frothy Chai Tea Latte Recipe

AHA Publisher — Wed, 26 Oct 2022 07:00:45 +0000

Dr. Josh Axe, DC, DNM, CN – Chai or chai tea is a popular drink in India, where this delicious hot beverage is often made by boiling tea leaves with milk and adding sugar and spices. My chai tea recipe is a bit of a twist because instead of whole cow’s milk, I use coconut milk. In addition, instead of refined white sugar, I use honey or maple syrup, and instead of including tea, I keep this chai caffeine-free. (Yet it’s ready for the addition of tea if you’d like. Traditionally, chai includes black tea.) This chai tea recipe is so tasty. Rather than being filled with toxic chemicals and artificial sweeteners and flavors, this drink is loaded with chai tea benefits thanks to its antioxidants, real spices and zero refined sugars. It’s easy to make and extremely delicious. So, go on, give this hot, creamy, fragrant beverage a try. What Is Chai? Chai tea, chai latte, chai tea latte — no matter what you call it, chai is a popular beverage these days. Tea lattes are a variation on caffè lattes. Like caffè lattes, they are typically made with steamed milk, but instead of including coffee or espresso, a tea latte is made with tea. However, this chai tea latte recipe is caffeine-free so you don’t have to worry at all about an unpleasant caffeine overdose. So what is chai? “Chai” is the Hindi word for “tea,” which was derived from “cha.” Cha is the Chinese word for “tea.” So what is chai tea? It’s essentially “tea tea” that is made customarily in India, where it’s commonly called masala chai. The spices that go into chai can vary from region to region or even household to household, just like garam masala. Some of the spices most commonly included in a chai include cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, cloves and black peppercorn. So wait, does chai tea have caffeine, and how much caffeine does chai tea have? Chai tea only has caffeine if a caffeine source is included in its making. Typically, it does include caffeinated black tea, but it doesn’t have to. As I said, this chai recipe is completely free of caffeine, which makes it a great choice for kids as well as adults! The benefits of chai tea comes from its many health-boosting ingredients. For example, all of the spices are loaded with antioxidants, which are known to play an important role in the prevention of so many chronic diseases. How to Make This Chai Tea Recipe How to make chai tea is really quick and simple. Basically, all you have to do is heat up the milk and then combine all of the ingredients in a blender. The same goes for chai lattes that include black tea. Simply steep the tea and add to the blender. The first step in this recipe is to put the coconut milk into a small pot and warm it up over medium heat. Add the warmed coconut milk to a high-powered blender. Add the honey or maple syrup. Add the date and spices to the blender. Blend on high until well-combined. Pour and enjoy. Your chai is complete! Frothy Chai Tea Latte Recipe Chai tea is a popular drink in India and is often made by boiling tea leaves with milk and adding sugar and spices. Try my chai tea recipe! INGREDIENTS 2 cups coconut milk 1 date, pitted ½–1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup ½ teaspoon cinnamon ⅛ teaspoon ginger ⅛ teaspoon cardamom ⅛ teaspoon nutmeg ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves INSTRUCTIONS In a small pot, over medium heat, warm the coconut milk. Add the warmed coconut milk to a high-powered blender. Add the remaining ingredients to the blender and blend on high until well-combined. Pour and enjoy! To read the original article click here.

The post Frothy Chai Tea Latte Recipe appeared first on Amazing Health Advances.

Ginger Powder as a Pain-Killer?

AHA Publisher — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 07:00:32 +0000

Michael Greger M.D. FACLM via Nutrition Facts – There have been at least eight randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials of ginger for pain. You may recall that I’ve previously explored the use of spinach for athletic performance and recovery, attributed to its “anti-inflammatory effects.” Most athletes aren’t using spinach to beat back inflammation, though; they use drugs, typically non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, which is used by up to 95 percent of collegiate athletes and three quarters of kids playing high school football. They aren’t only using it for inflammation, though, but also prophylactically “prior to athletic participation to prevent pain and inflammation before it occurs. However, scientific evidence for this approach is currently lacking, and athletes should be aware of the potential risks in using NSAIDs as a prophylactic agent,” which include gastrointestinal pain and bleeding, kidney damage, and liver damage. There was one study in particular that freaked everyone out: A study of thousands of marathon runners found that those taking over-the-counter pain killers before the race had five times the incidence of organ damage. Nine were hospitalized—three with kidney failure after taking ibuprofen, four with gastrointestinal bleeding after taking aspirin, and two with heart attacks, also after aspirin ingestion. In contrast, none of the control group ended up in the hospital. No pain killers, no hospital. What’s more, the analgesics didn’t even work. “Analysis of the pain reported by respondents before and after racing showed no major identifiable advantages” to taking the drugs, so it appeared there were just downsides. What about using ginger instead? That’s the subject of my video Ground Ginger to Reduce Muscle Pain. In that marathon study, as you can see below and at 1:33 in my video, the most common adverse effect of taking the drugs was gastrointestinal cramping. Ginger, in contrast to aspirin or ibuprofen-type drugs, may actually improve gastrointestinal function. For example, endurance athletes can suffer from nausea, and ginger is prized for its anti-nausea properties. Okay, but does it work for muscle pain? There have been at least eight randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials of ginger for pain—for everything from osteoarthritis to irritable bowel to painful periods. I’ve made videos about all of those, as well as its use for migraine headaches. Overall, ginger extracts, like the powdered ginger spice you’d get at any grocery store, were found to be “clinically effective” pain-reducing agents with “a better safety profile than non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.” As you can see below and at 2:22 in my video, the ginger worked better in some of the studies than in others, which is “likely to be at least partly due to the strong dose-effect relationship that [was] identified and the wide range of doses used among the studies under analysis (60-2000 mg of extract/day).” In terms of reduction of pain, as you can see below and at 2:32 in my video, the best results were achieved with one and a half or two grams a day, which is a full teaspoon of ground ginger. The drugs work by suppressing an enzyme in the body called cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), which triggers inflammation. The problem is that they also suppress cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1), which does good things like protect the lining of your stomach and intestines. “Since inhibition of COX-1 is associated with gastrointestinal irritation, selective inhibition of COX-2”—the inflammatory enzyme—“should help minimize this side effect” and offer the best of both worlds. And, that’s what ginger seems to do. As you can see below and at 3:11 in my video, two ginger compounds had no effect against COX-1, the “good” enzyme, but could dramatically cut down on COX-2, the pro-inflammatory one. Okay, but does ginger work for muscle pain? Not acutely, apparently. You can’t just take it like a drug. When folks were given a teaspoon of ginger before a bout of cycling, there was no difference in leg muscle pain over the 30 minutes, as you can see below and at 3:34 in my video. “However, ginger may attenuate the day-to-day progression of muscle pain.” Taking ginger five days in a row appears to “accelerate the recovery of maximal strength following a high-load…[weight-lifting] exercise protocol.” When you put all the studies together, it seems “a single dose of ginger has little-to-no discernable effects on muscle pain,” but if you take a teaspoon or two for a couple days or weeks, perhaps in a pumpkin smoothie or something, you may be able to reduce muscle pain and soreness, and “accelerate recovery of muscular strength…” Is fresh ginger preferable to powdered? Maybe not. As you can see below and at 4:12 in my video, there are all sorts of compounds in ginger with creative names as gingerols, gingerdiols, and gingerdiones, but the most potent anti-inflammatory component may be compound called shogaols. Interestingly, dried ginger contains more than fresh, which “justifies the uses of dry ginger in traditional systems of medicine for the treatment of various illnesses due to oxidative stress and inflammation.” In that case, why not just give the extracted shogaol component in a pill by itself? As you can see below and at 4:41 in my video, each of the active ginger components individually reduce inflammation, some more than others, but the whole ginger is greater than the sum of its parts. However, you can boost shogaol content of whole ginger by drying it, as they are the major gingerol dehydration products. Indeed, they’re created when ginger is dried. Heating ginger may increase shogaol concentration even more, so could heated ginger work better against pain than raw? You don’t know, until you put it to the test. A study examined the effects on muscle pain of 11 days of a teaspoon of raw ginger versus ginger that had been boiled for three hours. As you can see below and at 5:22 in my video, there was a significant reduction in muscle soreness a day after pumping iron in the cooked ginger group—and the same benefit was achieved with the raw ginger. Either way, “daily consumption of raw and heat-treated ginger resulted in moderate-to-large reductions in muscle pain following exercise-induced muscle injury.” Here’s the link to the video I mentioned: Flashback Friday: Foods to Improve Athletic Performance and Recovery. Key Takeaways The vast majority of college athletes and high school football players may use ibuprofen and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) both to treat inflammation and, prophylactically, to prevent pain and inflammation. The latter has potential risks, including gastrointestinal (GI) pain and bleeding, as well as damage to the kidney and liver. In a study of thousands of marathoners, taking painkillers before racing resulted in five times the incidence of organ damage and GI cramping was the most common adverse effect. The analgesics didn’t even work. In contrast to aspirin or ibuprofen-type drugs, ginger, which has anti-nausea properties, may actually improve GI function. Ginger extracts (e.g., the powdered ginger spice readily available in grocery stores) have been found to be “clinically effective” pain-reducing agents with a better safety profile than NSAIDs. Best results have been achieved with 1.5 to 2.0 g a day (about a teaspoon of ground ginger). NSAIDs suppress both the cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzyme, which triggers inflammation, as well as cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1), which protects stomach and intestinal linings; inhibition of COX-1 has been linked with GI irritation. Ginger appears to have no negative effect on the “good” COX-1 enzyme but may dramatically reduce the pro-inflammatory COX-2 enzyme. Although ginger may not acutely improve muscle pain, taking a teaspoon or two for consecutive days or weeks may reduce muscle pain and soreness, as well as hasten recovery of muscular strength. Shogaols may be the most potent anti-inflammatory component in ginger, and dried ginger contains more than fresh, so powdered ginger may be preferred to fresh. Shogaols are created when ginger is dried, but heating ginger doesn’t seem to work more effectively against pain than raw ginger. Indeed, “daily consumption of raw and heat-treated ginger resulted in moderate-to-large reductions in muscle pain following exercise-induced muscle injury.” To read the original article click here.

The post Ginger Powder as a Pain-Killer? appeared first on Amazing Health Advances.

Restore Mental Clarity and Ease Digestive Discomfort with This Soothing “Superhero” Spice in Your Kitchen

AHA Publisher — Wed, 04 May 2022 07:00:31 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – The clean, spicy taste of ginger root adds a lively, refreshing note to sauces, soups, and salads. But this versatile herb – botanically known as Zingiber officinale – has a lot more to offer than merely an intriguing flavor. A staple of the ancient Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese healing systems, ginger has been advised for centuries to address nausea, joint pain, and a host of other ailments. Now, scientists are getting “on board” with the beneficial effects of ginger. In a 2020 review study published in the scientific journal Nutrients, researchers credited constituents in ginger with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and therapeutic properties. Let’s look at some of the ways in which soothing, refreshing ginger supports modern-day health and well-being. Calm Nausea and Promote Efficient Digestion With Ginger The queasy, dizzy “green-around-the-gills” sensation of being carsick or seasick can threaten to spoil even the most idyllic road trip or ocean cruise. Fortunately, some scientists believe that ginger can quell motion sickness even more effectively than pharmaceutical anti-nausea drugs – and achieve this without causing toxic side effects. What’s the secret? Ginger appears to quicken the speed at which the stomach empties, which may help decrease nausea, stomach discomfort, and bloating. Multiple reviews and studies have suggested that ginger may help with nausea resulting from chemotherapy (which affects up to 75 percent of all chemo patients). Ginger may help reduce nausea following surgical procedures, as well. Finally, a full 80 percent of pregnant women report experiencing morning sickness, especially in the first and second trimesters. Here, again, ginger may help. In one review involving over 1,200 pregnant volunteers and published in Nutrition Journal, dosages of one gram to one-and-a-half grams of ginger significantly reduced nausea. (Caution: pregnant women with vaginal bleeding and/or clotting disorders, who have had miscarriages, or who are close to giving birth should avoid ginger. Consult your obstetrician before using ginger for morning sickness). Ease Post-Workout Pain With Ginger The main bioactive components in ginger – gingerols, and shogaols – are “key players” in its anti-inflammatory properties. Both compounds have been shown to inhibit pro-inflammatory substances in the body, via the COX and LOX pathways. And, for good measure, ginger’s constituents also interfere with the action of xanthine oxidase, an enzyme involved in creating destructive free radicals. In plain English, this means that ginger can promote the health of body systems, such as the circulatory and musculoskeletal systems. Some scientists maintain that ginger may even help soothe occasional soreness caused by overwork or strenuous exercise. For example, in one older (but still influential) controlled study, volunteers performed eccentric actions of the elbow flexors to induce pain and inflammation. The researchers found that daily supplementation with two grams of ginger resulted in “moderate-to-large” reductions in muscle pain, leading the team to call ginger “effective” for this purpose. So, if you’ve ever overdone things in your fitness routine or day-to-day activities, it could help to reach for the ginger. By the way, ginger may also help soothe routine menstrual cramps. Neuroprotective Ginger Can Promote Mental Clarity and Support the Health of Brain Cells With the relentless demands on our time and attention exerted by the modern world, it’s no surprise that many of us experience occasional bouts of impaired concentration, sluggish thinking, and mental fatigue – a state commonly known as “brain fog.” Ginger could be just the thing to lift the “fog” and help restore clear thinking. It appears that ginger inhibits the production of acetylcholinesterase, an enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine (a neurotransmitter, or chemical messenger, crucial to learning and memory). Ginger also helps promote brain health by protecting glial cells, which remove inflammatory debris and toxins from the brain. While more research is needed, one clinical study showed that ginger enhanced attention and cognitive processing in middle-aged women. And, in an animal study published in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, scientists concluded that dried ginger improved novel objection recognition and enhanced memory. If you feel your concentration and attention are flagging, a revivifying cup of ginger tea could certainly be worth a try. Use Ginger Root Fresh or Dried Fresh ginger root (technically not the root, but the rhizome – or underground stem – of the ginger plant) can be washed, peeled, then chopped, sliced, or grated for use in recipes or beverages. You can make ginger tea by washing, peeling, and thinly slicing an inch or two of the fresh root, then steeping for ten minutes in hot water. Strain, allow to cool, and enjoy – taking small, slow sips. Natural healers advise drinking up to four cups a day. When eaten in the amounts usually found in food, ginger is generally considered safe. Consuming excessive amounts, however, could cause heartburn in some individuals. Dried, powdered ginger is available in convenient capsule form. Natural healers typically advise amounts ranging from 1,000 mg to 2,000 mg a day, taken in divided doses. Of course, we suggest you get the “go-ahead” from a trusted integrative healthcare provider before supplementing with ginger. Bottom line: whether you’re looking for a quick mental “re-set” from brain fog, a drug-free boost of energy or natural relief from upset stomach and nausea, versatile ginger just might be the herbal “superhero” you need. Sources for this article include: Healthline.com NIH.gov Healthline.com NIH.gov FiveStarSeniorLiving.com NIH.gov To read the original article click here.

The post Restore Mental Clarity and Ease Digestive Discomfort with This Soothing “Superhero” Spice in Your Kitchen appeared first on Amazing Health Advances.

Wow! New Study Shows Ginger Combats Alzheimer’s Disease and Cognitive Impairment

AHA Publisher — Tue, 09 Nov 2021 08:00:35 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – Alzheimer’s disease, a neurodegenerative condition that impairs memory and cognitive abilities, currently affects over 6 million Americans – and causes the death of 83,000 people every year. Unfortunately, rates of the disease are soaring, with the Alzheimer’s Association predicting that this number will climb to 13 million by the year 2050. Conventional pharmaceutical drugs to address Alzheimer’s disease have shown disappointing results, and researchers are searching urgently for novel therapeutic agents to use against this debilitating condition. Now, recent research has provided a ray of hope. In a review published in January 2021, the authors reported that ginger combats the oxidative stress, inflammation, and neuron cell death that contribute to Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers: Neuroprotective Effects of Ginger Help Improve Memory and Cognition In a review published in Biomedicine and Pharmacotherapy in 2021, the authors used human, animal, and cell studies to evaluate the effects of ginger – and its bioactive constituents gingerol, shogaol, and borneal – on Alzheimer’s disease. Scientifically known as Zingiber officinale, ginger is an ancient herb that has been revered in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine for centuries for its ability to treat a host of ailments – including coughs, colds, infections,rheumatism, digestive problems, and fevers. (And yes, ginger has a long history of herbal use for memory problems as well!) The team noted that studies on fish, mice, and humans have consistently shown that ginger can improve memory and cognition. In one study published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, researchers assessed the effects of ginger supplementation on cognitive tasks and working memory in middle-aged women. The reviewers reported that ginger improved scores for word recognition, spatial working memory, and numeric working memory. Researchers believe that ginger enhances memory by increasing the expression of a protein known as nerve growth factor (NGF). Encouragingly, ginger has also been shown to inhibit beta-amyloid peptides, which have been tied to “senile plaques” that trigger Alzheimer’s disease. And the effects can be dramatic. In one study, treatment with ginger reduced amyloid plaque-induced behavioral dysfunction – along with brain cell death. In addition, a compound in ginger known as 6-shogaol has been shown to help block inflammatory chemicals, or interleukins, involved in the development of Alzheimer’s disease. And, finally, ginger boosts levels of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter essential for memory and learning. The authors concluded that ginger possesses “great potency for improving memory functions” and is a “safe nutraceutical that can be applied to combat neurodegenerative diseases.” They called for more research to further explore the exciting neuroprotective effects of ginger. Destructive Free Radicals Spur Alzheimer’s Disease Scientists think that Alzheimer’s disease stems from age-related impairment in the cell mitochondria, which triggers the release of harmful free radicals. The subsequent oxidative damage causes all sorts of mischief – such as increasing the neurofibrillary tangles and beta-amyloid plaques, which contribute to Alzheimer’s disease. Free radicals also cause the release of toxins such as malondialdehyde while affecting levels of antioxidants – including glutathione and superoxide dismutase – in the body’s natural defense system. By the way, Alzheimer’s disease is the leading form of dementia – a steady decline in thinking, behavioral and social skills. Sadly, experts say the incidence of dementia doubles every ten years after age 60. Ginger Has All the Right “Anti’s” to Prevent Disease Neuroprotection is not the only weapon in ginger’s arsenal against disease. The authors had high praise for ginger’s other therapeutic effects as well, noting that its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory powers help it act against cancer and type 2 diabetes. Ginger is also antibacterial, antifungal, and antispasmodic – and can act as a natural fever reducer. As if that weren’t impressive enough, ginger may even promote weight loss, lower blood sugar and help decrease levels of harmful LDL cholesterol. Believe it or not, ginger is just getting started! The review authors also noted that a ginger constituent known as 6-gingerol could help protect against stomach ulcers, boost the immune system, protect the liver and alleviate allergic reactions. (In fact, it’s difficult to think of a condition that ginger doesn’t help!) Use Fresh or Powdered Ginger to Add Peppery, “Zippy” Flavor to Recipes While ginger is treasured in herbal healing, it has a multitude of culinary uses as well. You can utilize fresh ginger root or powdered ginger to enliven beef, poultry, and fish recipes – along with sauces, stews, vegetables, and salads. You can even steep ginger into a soothing, warming tea by thinly slicing an inch or two of ginger root and boiling it for 10 minutes. (Add honey and lemon juice for even more flavor and antioxidant punch!) Incidentally, ginger’s close relative, turmeric, is believed to have many of the same therapeutic effects as ginger – thanks to its content of a powerful antioxidant known as curcumin. So why not combine both of these flavorful spices in the same recipe? Ginger supplements are available in capsules and tablets, with natural health experts typically advising around 1,500 mg a day in divided servings. If you are interested in supplementing with ginger, check first with your trusted integrative healthcare provider. While ginger is generally recognized as safe when used in moderate quantities, excessive amounts can cause side effects such as heartburn and diarrhea. The new research reveals ginger’s potential as an important weapon in the decades-long battle against Alzheimer’s disease. Wouldn’t it be ironic if a lifesaving natural therapy was “hiding in plain sight” the whole time? Sources for this article include: NYDailyNews.com MayoClinic.org AlzheimersAssociation.org LifeExtension.com To read the original article click here.

The post Wow! New Study Shows Ginger Combats Alzheimer’s Disease and Cognitive Impairment appeared first on Amazing Health Advances.

15 Simple Super Foods That Support Your Immune System

AHA Publisher — Tue, 31 Aug 2021 07:00:02 +0000

Dr. Don Colbert – If you’re looking to support your immune system and stick to a low-carb diet, you’re in luck. There are many low-carb Keto Zone® foods that support your immune system. In fact, while refined starches and sugar actually inhibit immune function, many healthy low-carbohydrate fats, proteins, and vegetables support it. Here is our Top 15 List! 15 Simple Superfoods That Support Your Immune System 1. Anti-Inflammatory Spices i.e. Ginger and Turmeric Looking for a strong anti-inflammatory, immune-supporting punch? Ginger and Turmeric are potent spices with anti-inflammatory components. In fact, the main compound in turmeric, curcumin, can normalize inflammation, joint pain, and provide a plethora of health benefits. What’s more, ginger does many of the same things. It promotes whole-body health, supports the immune system, reducing inflammatory and pain responses with its strong antioxidants. Why is reducing inflammatory responses important in supporting your immune system? Inflammation directly affects the immune system by changing the course of hormones and impacting the immune response (1). 2. Fish Oils and Omega-3 Sources Like anti-inflammatory spices, omega-3 fats from fish and seafood are foods that support your immune system. In fact, they are some of the most potent compounds to reduce inflammatory hormone production. It’s vital to have a good ratio of dietary omega-3 fats compared to omega-6 fats. Both are needed for human health, but modern diets are far too high in omega-6 foods (mostly due to processed foods), and too low in omega-3s from fish and seafood, seeds, nuts, and more. Great choices for omega3 fatsare salmon, halibut, and tuna. 3. MCT Oil Powder While it works differently than omega3 fats, the medium-chain triglycerides in MCT Oil Powder also reduce inflammatory reactions. In fact, studies have shown that MCT oil directly reduces the response of C-reactive protein (a marker for inflammation) (2). 4. High Antioxidants Fruits and Vegetables Antioxidants are also vital compounds in foods that support your immune system. Antioxidants fight free radicals that damage all cells and systems, including the immune system, reduce inflammation, and support cellular detoxification. For example, two high-antioxidant superfoods found in Divine Health Fermented Green Supremefood® and Organic Red Supremefood® that support the immune system in this way are beets, spirulina, and wheatgrass (3, 4, 5, 6). Great choices include berries, asparagus, greens, kale, broccoli, cauliflower, and more. 5. Oleocanthal Oleocanthal is a special compound isolated from high-quality Greek olive oils. While it’s not easy to find it in most commercial olive oils, it can be consumed in Dr. Colbert’s Oleocanthal (Powerful Antioxidant Concentrated from High-Phenolic Extra Virgin Olive Oil). In fact, it contains disease-fighting antioxidants, anti-inflammatories, and compounds that support heart health. Oleocanthal is so strong it reduces inflammation in similar strength to some medications, like ibuprofen (4). Additionally, it provides both antibacterial and antiviral action (5). Oleocanthal is a compound that absolutely supports your immune system. 6. Avocados Avocados are another anti-inflammatory food. It has fats called phytosterols. They are known to combat the inflammation associated with arthritis. Avocados also contain polyhydroxylated fatty alcohols (PFAs), which are also potent anti-inflammatories. Lastly, avocado’s oleic acid supports digestive tract health to directly boost the immune system. 7. Proteins from Eggs, Meats and More While many people consume more protein than they need, it is still a vital macronutrient for the immune system. In fact, when people suffer from protein malnutrition, they are typically unable to fight diseases from bacteria or viruses. The immune system, hormones, cellular growth and repair, and other systems all rely on adequate protein. 8. Collagen and Bone Broth If you’ve been told to eat chicken noodle soup when you’re sick, it’s mostly for the bone broth. The collagen in bone broth and Keto Zone Collagen Powder support the immune system by: Providing amino acids and proteins Fortifying the cells in the digestive tract Reducing inflammation 9. Natural and Supplemental Probiotics One very important step to support your immune system is to support your gut. The cells in the digestive tract and the healthy bacteria that live there are vital to the immune system and nourishment of the whole body. There are many ways to get probiotics, or healthy bacteria, in low-carbs foods. These include probiotics found in Keto Zone Collagen Powder, Organic Green and Red Supremefood®, Keto Zone Living Milled Chia with Probiotics, plain yogurt, kimchi, kombucha and more. By adding healthy bacteria to your diet, you can support your immune system (8). 10. Garlic and Onions Garlic is a wonderful food to support your immune system. Garlic’s compounds fight viruses and bacterias while supporting cellular detox. Studies show that garlic may be effective in supporting natural immune functions against antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria (9) and strong viruses. Additionally, onions support your immune system with antioxidants, anti-bacterial and anti-cancer compounds. 11. Lemons and Lemon Juice Vitamin C is one of our most-studied and well-known antioxidants. Lemons contain vitamin C plus antibacterial components effective throughout the mouth and intestines. 12. Black Pepper, Cinnamon, and Cloves Setting in your spice cupboard are incredibly strong foods that support your immune system (in addition to turmeric and ginger). These include: Black peppercorns support your immune system with potent antioxidants like piperine and anti-inflammatory compounds (10. Cinnamon is not only known for being anti-inflammatory, but it’s cinnamaldehyde can also fight infections directly. It inhibits Salmonella, Staphylococcus aureus, and Helicobacter pylori. What’s more, it can fight tooth decay and supports the immune response to infection. Cloves, like cinnamon, are a spice that supports immune health, fights bacteria, and fights free radicals. 13. Cauliflower and Broccoli Cauliflower and broccoli are amazing vegetables. In addition to antioxidants that fight oxidative stress, their nutrients specifically support cellular detoxification to keep cells healthy and thriving. This includes both Phase 1 and Phase 2 of cellular detoxification. 14. Apple Cider Vinegar Organic apple cider vinegar is an ingredient in many folk medicine cures. It is known to fight both bacterial and viral infections, yeasts, and more. Importantly, you should never drink it straight. Always dilute to just 1-2 tablespoons per 8 ounces liquid to protect your esophagus. 15. Water, Green Tea, and Black Tea Green and black tea are packed full of antioxidants that fight free radicals, fight bacteria, and support your immune system. In fact, their specific nutrients fight microbes in the mouth. And water? Not only is it necessary for life, but it’s also necessary for the immune system. Especially during times of viral outbreak, it’s important to stay hydrated and keep your mouths and airways moist. Bonus: Introducing DR. COLBERT’S IMMUNE SUPPORT! In addition to consuming immune-supporting foods, now you can also support your immune system with Dr. Colbert’s Immune Support supplement. Dr. Colbert has designed this product specifically to promote healthy skin, gut health, connective tissue, and immune function. Get yours today! Bottom Line You don’t have to go shopping for extravagant foods to eat super foods that support your immune system. In fact, many on our list are likely already in your home. Support your immune system this year with healthy Keto Zone foods and supplements! To read the original article click here.

The post 15 Simple Super Foods That Support Your Immune System appeared first on Amazing Health Advances.