We hear a lot about the benefits of ginger but very little about its side effects…
Ginger is a plant whose root, called rhizome, has been used for thousands of years in cooking and herbal medicine. In addition to enhancing the taste of dishes and drinks, ginger has many health benefits. Popular for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action, it is classically used to relieve digestive disorders such as nausea and vomiting (particularly during pregnancy), menstrual pain, travel sickness or even joint pain from osteoarthritis. Studies are also underway to evaluate its effectiveness in stabilizing diabetes.
Although it has few contraindications, side effects are possible if you consume a little too much ginger. “In practice, it is recommended not to exceed more than 3 grams per day,” recalls Alexandra Murcier, dietitian-nutritionist in Paris. Ginger can thin the blood too “taking anticoagulants must be monitored to avoid the risk of hemorrhage and the consumption of ginger is not recommended before surgery”Alexandra Murcier informs us. It is also likely to cause heavier bleeding in some women during periods.
Consumption of ginger is not recommended in cases of gallbladder problems because it stimulates the production of bile. “In high doses, ginger is likely to cause heartburn and diarrhea, which may seem paradoxical because it is a plant used to soothe digestive disorders” adds the specialist. You must therefore always consume it without exceeding 3 grams per day and respect the dosages if you take it in capsule form, for example. Finally, ginger can cause bad breath and leave an unpleasant taste in the mouth. If in doubt about taking ginger, you should ask the attending physician during a consultation or the pharmacist.
