Trend drink
How Healthy Are Ginger Shots Really?
How healthy are ginger shots?
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Everyone is talking about ginger shots. In the fight against pathogens, the trendy drink is said to be a secret weapon. But how much truth is there in this claim?
Ginger shots are very popular. They are no longer “just” a trendy drink, but are an integral part of their everyday lives for many. Even if the taste may take some getting used to because of its sharpness, ginger juice is said to work wonders in terms of health. The assumption that ginger gets the immune system going, strengthens the immune system and can prevent colds is persistent. But how much truth is there in these statements?
What do ginger shots do for our health?
There are no studies that have ever examined whether ginger protects against colds or even prevents them, emphasizes Matthias Melzig, Professor of Pharmaceutical Biology. Laboratory studies, however, “appear to have a positive effect on the immune system”. The so-called antioxidants, i.e. cell protectors, are responsible for this. These substances (e.g. vitamin C) help to stimulate the immune system, ward off damage to the cells and thus support the defense against disease. Ginger also contains essential oils (e.g. curcumin), which have an antiviral effect, and pungent substances (e.g. gingerols), which are anti-inflammatory.
Digestion in the intestines is also stimulated by ginger. “The hot substances lead to an increased release of digestive enzymes and digestive juices, thus stimulating protein digestion, especially fat digestion and of course carbohydrate digestion”, says Matthias Melzig. The spice also activates the production of stomach acid, which means that other foods can be digested more quickly and easily. Ginger shots can be beneficial for the stomach and intestinal flora.
Some studies also confirm that ginger has a positive effect on nausea and vomiting. How exactly the tuber works has not been adequately researched. Presumably, the ingredients dock on receptors in the gastrointestinal tract that trigger nausea and nausea.
Make ginger shots yourself instead of buying them
Stiftung Warentest has currently tasted 19 shots and found enormous differences, not just in terms of price. According to the testers, the health promises alone should not be a reason to buy. If you want to buy the drink ready-made in the supermarket, you also have to dig deep into your wallet. The shot can be easily copied at home. With this recipe, the sour shorts can also be made at home.
Recipe: lemon and ginger shot
Ingredients for ten shots:
- 8 lemons
- 100 g ginger
- 100 ml agave syrup
- 200 ml of water
Preparation:
- First squeeze the lemons well and collect the juice. Then peel the ginger and cut into large cubes.
- Put lemon juice, ginger, water and agave syrup in a blender and puree finely (also works with a hand blender). Finally, fill the ginger-lemon mixture into a clean glass bottle.
Source used: stern.de, test.de