DavidWolfe.comGinger adds a spicy and bold flavor to many dishes. It’s been used for centuries to alleviate symptoms caused by many medical conditions, including motion sickness, digestive issues and even arthritis. Ginger’s natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects make it a natural healer. While ginger does indeed boast many health benefits, there are some health conditions it can actually have a negative effect on.
You should never eat ginger if you have any of these four health conditions:
1. You’re Pregnant
Ginger contains many stimulates that support muscle health and aid in digestion. If you’re pregnant, these stimulates might end up leading to premature contractions and preterm labors. Its use is especially discouraged during the last trimester of pregnancy. A small amount of ginger can help alleviate morning sickness early on in your pregnancy, but consult with a health care professional beforehand.
2. You Have A Blood Disorder
Ginger stimulates circulation to increase blood flow. For those struggling with obesity or diabetes, this is a positive benefit. But for people who suffer from hemophilia, it can be a negative side effect. Hemophilia is a genetic disorder caused by missing or defective factor VIII – a clotting protein. Without this protein, the blood isn’t able to clot effectively. A small injury can lead to excessive bleeding and even death. Ginger’s ability to stimulate blood flow can end up neutralizing the effects of medications, causing dangerous hemorrhaging.
3. You’re Taking Certain Types Of Medications
If you’re taking medication for high blood pressure or diabetes, ginger can have a negative effect on your condition. Ginger stimulates blood thinning and reduces blood pressure, which are great benefits for the body, unless you’re taking these types of medications. When ginger combines with anticoagulants, beta-blockers or insulin drugs, it can cause harm to the body by lowering the effects of these medications.
4. You’re Underweight
If you’re struggling to gain weight, skip the ginger tea or ginger-based supplements. Ginger is high in fiber. It raises the pH level of the stomach and stimulates digestive enzymes. It can aid in fat burning while lowering food cravings. Regular consumption of ginger tea or ginger supplements can end up causing weight loss, hair loss, menstruate irregularities and poor muscle mass in those who are already underweight.
Ginger Alternatives
If you have one of these health conditions but you enjoy spicing up your food, there are a few ginger substitutes you can use instead. Try sweet peppers, cayenne pepper or red paprika to add a little extra flavor to your dishes!
Sources:
Healthy Food House
National Hemophilia Foundation
World’s Healthiest Foods
Rx List
NCBI
Mother To Baby