Does Ginger Have Weight Loss Benefits?

Ginger has long been known as a spice in various cuisines and even as an herbal remedy. Ground into a dry powder or zested raw off the root, ginger is also believed to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, that when paired with a healthy diet can contribute to weight loss.

So where did ginger's involvement in weight loss come from? Ginger contains compounds called zingerone and shogaols that could be beneficial to the process of burning and storing fat in your body (via Medical News Today). Additional studies found a connection between ginger and reduced body weight and waist-to-hip ratio, and blood glucose metabolism.

Research also found that ginger can be an appetite suppressant, help speed up digestion and stabilize your blood sugar — a necessity for weight loss, according to Healthline. There are many more health benefits to ginger, including contributing to increased energy levels, regulating bowel movements, and giving your brain and immune system a nice boost.

There are some downsides to increasing your ginger intake. You may experience some gastrointestinal discomfort like heartburn, constipation or gas. You should also be mindful of any possible allergies or sensitivities to ginger's Zingiberaceae plant family, as symptoms like dermatitis may develop.

Some groups should also be cautious about their ginger intake. Those with gallbladder disease or taking blood-thinner medications, and pregnant or nursing women, should consult with their doctors before modifying their diet with extra ginger.

From what experts know right now, ginger alone won't cause you to shed pounds. More research is needed to assess the specific weight-loss properties of ginger. But supplementing a healthy diet and exercise routine with ginger may bring some added benefits. Some popular ways to enjoy ginger are through a hot drink with green tea or lemon, juice, a supplement, or in powder form in recipes.