Most people when they hear “ginger” think of one of two things. A healthy, fragrant root known for its medicinal properties and incredible benefits, or a freckled red-head. And while both are great definitions, I’m going to be focusing on the former.
What Is Ginger?
It’s true that ginger has been used for thousands of years in countries all over the world for medicinal purposes. History shows that many cultures used ginger to treat diarrhea, stomach ache, nausea, and more. (1)
Research shows that ginger has undeniable antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Not only that, but ginger has proven useful in treating not just minor ailments, but also many diseases and conditions such as osteoarthritis, diabetes, migraines, and ulcers. (2)
With all these amazing attributes, it sounds like ginger really can’t go wrong!
Unfortunately, that’s not the case. Although ginger has proven helpful in treating many conditions and diseases, this funny-looking root isn’t for everyone. If you belong to any of the following 4 groups of people, you may want to keep ginger out of your diet.
You Should Avoid Ginger If…
1. Underweight or Battling Anorexia
Another amazing benefit of ginger is that it’s great for weight loss. Research shows that ginger can help to reduce your hunger throughout the day, curb your appetite, and give you a feeling of fullness. (3)
These are all great benefits if you’re trying to drop the pounds. But if your current weight is already lower than it should be, or if you are battling an eating disorder such as anorexia, it is probably best that you avoid ginger as much as possible.
2. Pregnant Women
While research has shown that ginger can help with morning sickness or NVP, and ginger does have a reputation for relieving nausea, there are other possible risks for pregnant women taking ginger such as heartburn, miscarriage, or impaired fetal development. Because doctors are still uncertain of whether or not ginger is safe for pregnant women, it is best that you avoid ginger while pregnant, or be sure to speak with your doctor about your specific case. (1, 4)
3. Those With Blood Disorders
Ginger has shown to have an effect on people with blood disorders, especially those who experience platelet aggregation. Platelet aggregation occurs when platelets in the blood clump together forming a clot. Although in some cases ginger has no effect on people with the condition, it has shown to negatively affect others. Because further study is still needed in this area, if you have a blood disorder that involves blood clotting, it is probably best to avoid ginger.
4. Those Who Take Blood Thinner
Ginger has proven very beneficial in combating negative effects of diabetes such as lowering blood glucose and cholesterol. It is very common, however, for those with diabetes to be taking a blood thinner, such as Warfarin. Studies show that although ginger doesn’t affect blood thinning medication in all cases, there are many cases in which it has. Because it is probable that ginger will interact negatively with blood thinners, is it advised that you don’t take ginger while on this medication. (1, 6, 7)
Best Way To Avoid Ginger Danger
Ginger has been used for thousands of years and is still used commonly today because of its natural healing benefits. But if you fall into at least one of the four groups above, you may just need to find an herb or supplement other than ginger.
The best way to avoid the danger of ginger is to speak with your doctor. Every case is different, and your doctor is really the one most qualified to tell you if ginger is for you or not. The good news is, the world is filled with natural plants and herbs for every need and occasion. You just have to find the ones that are right for you!
