A moist, spicy, chewy, and healthy snack choice is the superfood crystallized ginger. For centuries it has been a popular home remedy for a variety of ailments. Here are 7 health benefits of crystallized ginger.
7 health benefits of crystallized ginger are:
- Anti-Inflammatory
- Helps with Motion Sickness
- Aids with Indigestion
- Can help with Digestive Disorders
- May help with Cold and Flu Symptoms
- Ginger Helps with Asthma
- May Improve Circulation
Ginger is an herb with a long tuber called a rhizome that’s buried
in the ground. This rhizome is peeled, sliced, and cooked in syrup before it is dried. Sugar is then sprinkled on it to create the chewy and tangy treat we all love. The best part about this snack is some of the guilt from the dose of sugar can be relieved by its many benefits.
Let’s face it; you’re going to want a sweet treat at some point during the day. Why not make a healthier choice than reaching for a candy bar?
Ginger is an Anti-Inflammatory
It helps reduce swelling which decreases pain since arthritis is a disease characterized by inflammation in the joints. Ginger has a proven track record both in modern medicine and in ancient times of relieving aches and pains. Its anti-inflammatory properties are believed to be the reason it’s so helpful with stomach and intestinal issues as well.
Motion Sickness
Studies have shown that ginger gives relief to nausea symptoms which are a huge part of motion sickness. Ginger has also been shown to be as effective as Dramamine with warding off motion sickness if taken preventatively. Chewing a few pieces of crystallized ginger about an hour before travel can help if you suffer from the effects of motion sickness.
Indigestion
The esophagus is offered some protection by ginger since it stops the flow of stomach acid. Ginger also prevents esophageal inflammation, especially when consumed in liquid form before heartburn hits. Candied ginger makes a great tea, and all you have to do is heat up some water and throw a few pieces of crystallized ginger in to steep; easy peasy.
Ginger aids with Digestive Disorders
Ginger puts the breaks on bacteria like Salmonella, so it helps to
keep your digestive tract free of nasty bugs. It also speeds up the movement of food through your body, so your gastrointestinal tract isn’t blocked which relieves cramping, bloating, and constipation. It can help with the general regulation of these types of symptoms, so eating a few pieces of ginger a day can be a preventative.
May aid with Cold and Flu Symptoms
Ginger is known to help with colds, coughs, sore throats, and other symptoms of illness associated with the flu. Ginger also helps to inhibit the virus for the common cold altogether, so it can be used as a preventative. Because ginger helps to open airways, it is sometimes seen as a decongestant as well.
Helps with Asthma
Ginger’s anti-inflammatory properties again may play a role in the prevention of asthma since it reduces inflammation in the airway and relaxes muscles. This helps keep asthma attacks at bay by keeping them from occurring as frequently.
Improves Circulation
There is a lot of iron in crystallized ginger. About 1% of your daily requirement of iron can be found in just one serving of this candied treat. Iron is vital for the circulatory system because they’re a huge part of the makeup of red blood cells. Red blood cells are what carry oxygen around the body so it can function and eating more iron can raise your red blood cell count. Making sure you get enough iron is part of a well-balanced diet.
Final Thoughts on 7 Health Benefits of Crystallized Ginger
Always keep in mind that any superfood with health benefits doesn’t negate going to the doctor. It is always best to seek professional health when feeling ill.
Remember that crystallized ginger doesn’t have to be eaten straight out of the bag. Use it in oatmeal or pastries. Anywhere you want a bit of sweet and spicy flavor