Since the dawn of time, people have dug up ginger for its health benefits and spicy taste. Actually, it's in the same family as turmeric, another strong and healthy ingredient.

But just because it's been around for a while doesn't mean it can solve all of your health problems. In addition to a healthy diet, exercise, and regular visits to the doctor, ginger can be a great addition.

Ginger is anti-inflammatory

Ginger produces antioxidant-like compounds called phytonutrients like other products, including nuts, seeds, beans, and whole grains, which can decrease cell damage. By decreasing cell-signaling activity, the root may also prevent inflammation from occurring. With that in mind, adding ginger to nutrient-dense meals that are already healthy for you is the secret to unlocking those properties.

It is a natural way to ease period pains

Out of all the studies conducted on the pain-relieving effects of ginger, findings suggest that it deals the best for menstrual pain. Sipping ginger tea at the time of the month will also soothe nausea. However, it does not work as well if you normally take acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Check with the doctor before attempting some extract or pill type substitute since it may interfere with other drugs that you are taking.

It can lower your risk of diabetes

With 10.5% of American adults afflicted in 2018, diabetes is a big concern in this country. What's more, according to the American Diabetes Association, Black Americans, Native Americans, and Alaskan Natives suffer from the condition at a greater than normal rate.

Some active compounds in ginger have been linked by scientists to changes in insulin and metabolism. That said, adding extra to sugary gingerbread cookies won't do you any good if you're at risk for diabetes! For flavoring smoothies and veggie-based stir-frys and soups, keep both dried and fresh ginger on hand. Although certain chemical compounds in ginger can decrease over time, other beneficial ones are strengthened by the drying process.

It can support immunity

Are you aware of the spicy, pungent scent-flavor that ginger is known for? Gingerol, a molecule that has antioxidant effects to help support immunity, is responsible for that. For a fast health boost, consider sipping ginger tea or make a gingery salad dressing.

Ginger is a perfect way to spice any anti-inflammatory diet plan, and another great news is, it will last up to three weeks unpeeled in the refrigerator and much longer peeled or unpeeled in the fridge. Plus, it can help us shed excess pounds by exchanging the spice for added salt, sugar, or saturated fat!