Ginger contains bioactive compounds that may contribute to blood sugar control. However, the degree of effectiveness depends on several factors.
The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, may help muscle cells absorb glucose from the blood more efficiently, thereby increasing insulin sensitivity. This is a crucial factor in controlling blood sugar, according to the UK health website Medical News Today .
Ginger contains nutrients that can help people with diabetes control their blood sugar.
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These compounds are also believed to inhibit certain enzymes involved in starch digestion and possess anti-inflammatory activity, helping to reduce oxidative stress. These factors contribute to insulin resistance.
Some research evidence suggests that regular ginger consumption may help improve blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes and prediabetes. For example, a study published in the journal Nutrients showed that ginger helped lower fasting blood sugar levels in people with high blood sugar.
In clinical trials in humans, ginger is typically administered at doses ranging from 1.2 to 3 grams per day for periods of 4 to 12 weeks.
Meanwhile, in healthy individuals or those seeking preventative care, evidence suggests that regular ginger consumption does not have the same clear effect on stabilizing blood sugar as it does in people with diabetes.
Consult your doctor before using ginger regularly.
Ginger can sometimes cause some symptoms such as heartburn or gastrointestinal discomfort. These problems are usually mild. Ginger rarely causes serious side effects.
However, that doesn't mean it can be used in large quantities at will. Ginger can increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs such as aspirin or warfarin.
Additionally, when combined with blood sugar-lowering medications or insulin, high doses of ginger may increase the risk of excessive hypoglycemia. Therefore, people who are being treated for diabetes with medication should consult their doctor before using ginger regularly.
Therefore, if you want to use ginger to help control blood sugar, the safest way is to start with your daily diet. For example, you can use ginger as a spice or make ginger tea in moderation. Supplements can be taken at doses of 1 gram/day or more, but you should consult your doctor.
It's important to note that ginger can be supportive but cannot replace a healthy diet, regular exercise, and adherence to your doctor's treatment plan. Therefore, the best approach is to combine ginger with other blood sugar control methods, rather than using it as a standalone solution, according to Medical News Today .