Ginger, both fresh and dried, has been used for thousands of years by many different cultures across the world within cuisine but also as traditional medicine due to its believed therapeutic effects. For pregnant women, this root has some evidence that it may help with morning sickness, nausea and much more.
WHAT IS GINGER?
Well, if we’re going for formal introductions, say hello to Zingiber Officinale [zing-ee-ber, oh-fiss-ih-NAH-lee.] A popular flowering plant of the Zingiberaceae, it’s the proper title of this humble rhizome (a type of root) that’s been used as an Ayurvedic herb and tasty ingredient for thousands of years. Growing usually around 1.5-2.5cm thick underground and sprouting up to 100cm in height, its long, narrow leaves and conical flowers give it a bit more swag than the weird knobbly bit we know and love.
WHY IS GINGER HELPFUL DURING PREGNANCY?
Ginger shots contain hundreds of different compounds, including shogaols, gingerols, bisapolene, zingiberol, sesquiphellandrene, essential oils and resins. Research has shown that these compounds could reduce morning sickness during pregnancy for many women (link/link). Ginger has also been shown to be helpful with pain relief (link). Ginger shots could have a positive impact on circulating blood sugar (link). This study found that consuming ginger for six weeks could improve blood glucose status in women with gestational diabetes mellitus.
IS IT SAFE TO CONSUME GINGER DURING PREGNANCY?
As with any recommendations on additional nutrients and supplements above and beyond your normal diet, check with your GP before introducing anything new it into your routine, particularly when pregnant.
GINGER AND MEDICATION
If you take regular medication and would like to take ginger, it is important to talk it over with your doctor to avoid any potential risks.
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