Ginger, a versatile spice with a long history of culinary and medicinal use, is renowned for its remarkable benefits, particularly for digestive health. From alleviating nausea to reducing inflammation, ginger has been cherished for centuries in various cultures worldwide. In recent years, ginger ale, a carbonated beverage infused with ginger flavor, has gained popularity as a remedy for an upset stomach. Growing up I remember ginger ale was the go to at my house for an upset tummy. However, it’s essential to distinguish between the natural ginger root and a sugary ginger ale, as the latter may not provide the same health advantages. In this blog, we’ll explore the incredible benefits of ginger on the stomach, including its role as a carminative herb, while exploring what is actually in that can of ginger ale so we can make an informed decision next time we find ourselves in need of something to soothe a sore digestive tract.
The Wonder of Ginger for Your Stomach
- Relief from Nausea: Ginger has long been hailed as a natural remedy for nausea and motion sickness. It can be especially effective during pregnancy or for individuals undergoing chemotherapy. The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, have antiemetic properties that help calm the stomach.
- Reduced Inflammation: Chronic inflammation in the gut can lead to various digestive issues. Ginger contains powerful anti-inflammatory agents that may help alleviate symptoms associated with conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
- Improved Digestion: Ginger aids in digestion by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes. This can enhance nutrient absorption and reduce bloating, making it an excellent choice for those with indigestion or dyspepsia.
- Relief from Heartburn: Heartburn and acid reflux can be incredibly uncomfortable. Ginger may help by soothing the digestive tract.
- Carminative Properties: Ginger is a well-known carminative herb, meaning it helps alleviate gas and bloating. It promotes the expulsion of gas from the digestive tract, providing relief from discomfort.
- Antioxidant Properties: Ginger is rich in antioxidants, which protect the stomach lining from oxidative stress. This may help prevent ulcers and maintain overall stomach health.
The Downside of Ginger Ale
While ginger itself offers numerous benefits for the stomach, the same cannot be said for ginger ale, especially the commercially available varieties. Here’s why:
- High Sugar Content: Most ginger ales on the market are very similar and are laden with sugar. If we look at the popular Canada Dry Ginger Ale for example we can see that High Fructose Corn Syrup is one of the main ingredients and Ginger makes up less than 2% of the product. Looking at the nutrition label below, we can see that for just 1 can of this ginger ale, there is 35 grams of sugar… that is nearly 9 tsp of sugar! The American Heart Association only recommends 26 grams of sugar per day for women (or 6 tsp) and no more than 36 grams per day for men (or 9 tsp). Excessive sugar consumption can lead to a host of health problems, including obesity, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, heart disease, and more. It can also disrupt the balance of gut bacteria, leading to dysbiosis and digestive issues.
- Artificial Ingredients: Many ginger ale brands contain artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives that can irritate the stomach and contribute to gastrointestinal discomfort. We can see from the ingredient list above they included sodium benzoate and carmel coloring, both of which are potential carcinogens.
- Minimal Ginger: The ginger content in commercial ginger ale is often minimal. It’s mainly a sugary, carbonated beverage with artificial ginger flavoring, lacking the natural health benefits of real ginger.
- Carbonation: The carbonation in ginger ale can exacerbate bloating and gas for some individuals, making it an unsuitable choice for those seeking relief from digestive discomfort.
From what we just looked at we can see that Ginger, in its natural form, is a powerhouse of health benefits for the stomach. From alleviating nausea to reducing inflammation, promoting digestion, and acting as a carminative herb, ginger offers a host of advantages for gastrointestinal health. However, it’s crucial to be discerning when it comes to sources of ginger and asking ourselves if ginger ale is the best choice when you consider its high sugar content, artificial ingredients, and minimal ginger content. Unfortunately the poor quality of the ingredients can outweigh any potential benefits. If you want to harness ginger’s stomach-soothing power, try opting for making some simple fresh ginger tea which can be ready in as little as 10 or 15 minutes (less time than it will take to have your ginger ale delivered) with as little as two simple ingredients, or try ginger capsules, or incorporating ginger into your meals, rather than automatically reaching for a sugary ginger ale. Your digestive system and overall health will thank you for it.
Written by Sue Rapley
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