It’s Monday again! How? These beautiful Summer weekends seem to be flying by for our family. I hope you are all feeling happy and well.
Today I’m here to share a situation I’ve had over the past few weeks and hopes of perhaps helping one of you! Recently, I’ve been experiencing some GI (Gastrointestinal) issues. If you’re unfamiliar with GI issues, common symptoms include indigestion, nausea, heartburn, vomiting and changes in bowel habits. Lovely, I know. I’m not exactly sure what brought them on but, when I was really suffering through some of the worst of it, I turned to a natural remedy that helped so much.
Because we’re constantly talking in this space about how food can actually heal us and how our diets are EVERYTHING, I couldn’t wait to share this with you. Ginger! I turned to Ginger to ease so many of my symptoms. What a life saver.
For thousands of years (mostly in India and Southeast Asia), ginger has been the rare traditional remedy that gets genuine respect from the medical doctors and natural healers alike for its medicinal properties. The ailment that ginger seems to relieve/cure the most being GI and/or upset stomach issues. Here’s why:
• Ginger has an anti-inflammatory property that helps to reduce the inflammation which causes pain in the stomach.
• Ginger is a mild stimulant that promotes intestinal blood circulation for better digestion.
• Ginger contains a strong anti-oxidant called gingerol that aids muscles in the intestinal tract to relax. Gingerol helps provide relief from stomach pain due to indigestion by easing acid in the digestive tract as well as relieving gas.
• It helps the food flow smoothly through the digestive tract allowing for better absorption of nutrients.
• It naturally and effectively eliminates any extra gas from the intestinal tract.
• It stimulates the production of saliva, bile, gastric juices, etc. which aids in better digestion and prevents gas.
• It relaxes muscles and relieves cramping that lessens the chance of backed up food in the digestive system.
Now, ginger comes in many forms. If you’re looking to help ease some of the same issues I’ve been experiencing lately, try the following:
Ginger tea. Slice off a couple half inch pieces of raw ginger and steep them in hot water for a few minutes (some fresh lemon juice is another great addition to this tea). Drink this tea first thing in the morning and also right before bed.
Pickled ginger (like the kind served with sushi) is a popular way to consumer ginger but it is salty. If you are salt sensitive skip this one or eat it in moderation while drinking lots of water.
You can also add fresh ginger to your food. Keep making recipes that involve fresh ginger: smoothies, stir fry, and soups are a great way to sneak in ginger.
Chew on a piece of ginger or purchase ginger candies from your local health food store. They are a great source of real ginger!
I promise you that I am physical proof that all of the above is true and more! It makes me so happy to be able to turn to natural remedies in order to feel better. A simple change/addition to my diet has made all the difference in the world. I hope if you are suffering through some of the same, this information will help you too and if you’re not, try incorporating ginger into your diet anyway. Because of the health benefits I’ve listed above and so much more, everyone should be eating and drinking ginger. It’s so good for you! Stay well! Xx Janine
