Diabetes mellitus refers to a group of metabolic disorders that are marked by fluctuations in blood sugar levels. A study by the American Diabetes Association reports that India will see the greatest increase in people diagnosed with diabetes by 2030. Diabetes could be triggered by a variety of causes. It affects the way people produce or respond to insulin, which in turn affects the way the body processes sugar. If left untreated, diabetes may lead to obesity, heart and kidney complications. Diabetics are often advised to take extra care of their diet and take their medications as prescribed. There are many foods, herbs and spices that may help regulate blood sugar levels too. Ginger is one such herb that may help regulate your sugar metabolism. You can choose to chew into some fresh pieces or mix it with water and consume it in form of ginger water daily.
How Does Ginger Water Help Manage Blood Sugar?
If you have diabetes, you must be aware of how dangerously the liquid calories from sugary beverages and aerated sodas can impact your blood sugar. Ginger water as a beverage is an excellent tonic to keep your blood sugar levels in check. It is very low in calories. Ginger is very low on carbohydrates too. It has only 1.3 grams of carbohydrates per teaspoon. Carbohydrates tend to metabolise quickly, which can surge your blood sugar levels. Drinking ginger water with a hint of lemon is known to reduce the risk of kidney damage and even lowers the effects of diabetes. The pungent root is a rich source of zinc that plays a big role in the secretion of insulin.
According to an animal study published in the year 2014, when the obese rats were given a mix of cinnamon and ginger, they exhibited reduced body weight, blood sugar levels and increased insulin levels.
How to make ginger water:
1. Take half teaspoon grated ginger and boil it in 3 cups of water. Let the ginger steep in water for about ten minutes.
2. Use a strainer and pour the water in glasses.
3. Consume lukewarm.
It must be understood that moderation is the key to good health. Although, side effects are rare but excess ginger is known to cause heartburn and diarrhoea.
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
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FAQs
Ginger has been shown to modulate insulin release. Ginger promotes glucose clearances in insulin responsive peripheral tissues, which is crucial in maintaining blood glucose homeostasis (29). As well as, it is reported that 6-gingerol increases the glucose uptake at insulin responsive adipocytes (31).
Does ginger water lower blood sugar? ›
Ginger has been shown to modulate insulin release. Ginger promotes glucose clearances in insulin responsive peripheral tissues, which is crucial in maintaining blood glucose homeostasis (29). As well as, it is reported that 6-gingerol increases the glucose uptake at insulin responsive adipocytes (31).
How much ginger water should I drink daily? ›
Dosage. A general recommendation is to consume about one to three cups of ginger water or ginger tea per day. This equates to having about one teaspoon of powdered ginger or one to two teaspoons of grated raw ginger daily.
How much ginger should a diabetic take daily? ›
Ginger can be an effective addition to your diabetes treatment if you use it in moderation. Eating up to 4 grams per day may help lower your blood sugar levels and regulate insulin production. Be sure to talk with your doctor before adding this to your treatment regimen.
Who should not drink ginger water? ›
People with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and gallstones should talk to their doctor before taking ginger as a supplement.
How to make ginger water? ›
Add 2 tablespoons of peeled and thinly sliced ginger root and 4 cups of water to a medium-sized pot. Bring the water to a boil for at least 10 minutes. (If you prefer a stronger tea, add more ginger slices and boil the water for longer.) Then add honey, lime, or lemon to taste.
Can I just put ginger in hot water? ›
Yes, you can by: Thinly slice your fresh ginger. You don't need to peel it first, but do rinse it and scrub off any visible dirt. Plan on about using about a one-inch piece of ginger per cup of tea. In a saucepan, combine the ginger with fresh water (use one cup of water per serving).
What medications should not be taken with ginger? ›
Possible Interactions
Blood-thinning medications: Ginger may increase the risk of bleeding. Talk to your doctor before taking ginger if you take blood thinners, such as warfarin (Coumadin), clopidogrel (Plavix), or aspirin. Diabetes medications: Ginger may lower blood sugar.
Should you drink ginger water hot or cold? ›
It can be drunk either hot or cold. People can buy any of these products online. Alternatively, a person can make ginger water at home. The best way to make it is by using fresh ginger root, which people can find in grocery stores in the fresh produce section.
Can you take ginger with metformin? ›
Interactions between your drugs
No interactions were found between Ginger Root and metformin.
Drinking water is an excellent way to stay hydrated without consuming sugar. Green tea, cow's milk, and fermented milk (kefir) could also help you manage your blood sugar responses. Coffee also contains compounds that may help regulate blood sugar, but confirming this requires more research.
How can I lower my blood sugar quickly? ›
The fastest way to lower blood sugar is to take fast-acting insulin medication. Exercise can also help to bring down blood sugar levels quickly. Diet and lifestyle changes can help manage overall blood sugar levels, but for immediate action, prescription medication or medical assistance may be necessary.
What are the negative side effects of ginger? ›
It can cause mild side effects including heartburn, diarrhea, burping, and general stomach discomfort. Taking higher doses of 5 grams daily increases the risk for side effects. When applied to the skin: Ginger is possibly safe when used short-term. It might cause skin irritation for some people.
What happens if I drink ginger water every night? ›
May lower heart disease risk:
Ginger is rich in antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and anti-platelet activity, and has the hypolipidemic effect that helps lower cardiovascular risks. Ginger enhances blood circulation and keeps your heart healthy.
Does ginger make you urinate a lot? ›
"Foods that have a diuretic effect [think celery, asparagus, beets, lemons, melons, ginger, and parsley] can make you thirsty because they cause you to urinate more.
What drink reduces blood sugar? ›
Drinking water is an excellent way to stay hydrated without consuming sugar. Green tea, cow's milk, and fermented milk (kefir) could also help you manage your blood sugar responses. Coffee also contains compounds that may help regulate blood sugar, but confirming this requires more research.
Do turmeric and ginger lower blood sugar? ›
To keep your blood sugar levels in check, you can take a pinch of ginger powder along with turmeric milk. This will help in improving your fasting blood sugar levels.
