A healthy digestive system is essential not only for optimal digestion and nutrient absorption but also for the proper functioning of many other organs such as the immune system, brain, skin, and heart.
As the benefits of a balanced microbiome are increasingly recognized, many people are looking for natural ways to pamper their gut. Good news: there’s no need to invest in expensive dietary supplements to achieve this! Some everyday drinks, like tea, prove to be real allies for gut health.
Ginger tea, the all-around champion for soothing digestive ailments
Among the multitude of teas beneficial for the intestines, such as peppermint, chamomile, or fennel, it’s ginger tea that stands out according to dietitians.
Prepared from ginger root, this natural remedy has been popular for centuries to relieve various health problems. Its unique combination of anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and digestive properties makes it a top choice for soothing a multitude of digestive system disorders.
An effective remedy against nausea
Dietitian Crystal Orozco emphasizes that ginger tea is particularly indicated for frequent digestive problems such as stomach aches, bloating, and nausea. By blocking serotonin receptors in the intestine responsible for the vomiting reflex, ginger helps effectively relieve nausea. Its natural compounds, like gingerols, also help soothe feelings of discomfort.
Crystal Orozco, who herself is prone to intestinal problems, confides that ginger tea with lemon and honey is one of her favorite remedies to calm digestive pain and discomfort.
A valuable ally against indigestion
Ginger is recognized for its therapeutic effects on gastrointestinal health, particularly in managing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and indigestion. Studies have shown that ginger can help reduce gastric acid production, which can help alleviate GERD symptoms. Moreover, ginger’s ability to relax gastrointestinal muscles can also relieve cramps, bloating, and discomfort related to indigestion.
An asset against constipation
Ginger is known to accelerate gastric emptying, which is the passage of food from the stomach to the small intestine. By facilitating this process, ginger can help reduce the time food stays in the stomach, thus decreasing the risk of constipation and other digestive discomforts like nausea and heartburn.
An anti-inflammatory shield for the intestine
Chronic inflammation is a persistent inflammatory response to various factors such as environmental toxins, lifestyle, or stress. In the long term, it can damage the digestive tract and increase the risk of chronic inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) or leaky gut syndrome.
According to dietitian Keelin Murphy, gingerol, the bioactive ingredient in ginger, is a powerful antioxidant that can help reduce intestinal inflammation. It thus helps calm irritation and swelling of the intestinal mucosa, preventing potential damage. Keelin Murphy, a sports dietitian, recommends ginger tea to her athletes to relieve exercise-related intestinal problems.