Ginger for Weight Loss

Ginger may be effective in stimulating weight loss in obese men and women. Because of ginger's health benefits, ginger has been useful in correcting certain digestive disorders that can greatly effect the BMI and cholesterol levels of an individual. Even though there are no current scientific or medical research on the effects of ginger for weight loss, ginger, which comes in many forms, has had a positive history of improving overall health and wellness.

History

Ginger has a rich history originating out of Asia 5,000 years ago where it was used by the natives for medicine and food. Ginger has been popularized by Western culture since the 16th century when Henry VIII promoted the use of ginger to heal plague victims. Queen Elizabeth I popularized ginger even more by allegedly creating the first ginger bread man. By the 19th century, Spaniards were importing ginger to the West Indies, where ginger became widely sought after and grown.

Geography

Ginger is a root found of a tall, leafy plant related to the bamboo plant. Ginger's scientific name, Zingiber Officinal, refers to its unique shape that resembles an animal's horns. Ginger grows and thrives in hot, moist climates. Ginger currently grows in plentiful amounts in Africa, Latin America, and Australia.

Ginger's Health Benefits

Ayurveda, or the ancient study of natural wellness and health, believes that ginger aids in digestive-related illnesses and can ease upset stomach and diarrhea. Ginger is made up of volatile oils that can stabilize an imbalance of stomach or intestinal acidity. Ginger is especially helpful for people who suffer from chronic gas because it reduces intestinal inflammation.

Ginger and Obesity

Not only does ginger play a large role in neutralizing intestinal imbalances but it also inhibits bad cholesterol buildup, or low-density lipoprotein (LDL), in the body's liver. Ginger helps lower cholesterol by significantly reducing serum and hepatic cholesterol levels. It slows cholesterol absorption by stimulating the conversion of cholesterol to bile acids. Consuming ginger can have a profound effect on high cholesterol levels that are often attributed to obesity among women and men. High cholesterol levels in a person can indicate higher than normal BMI and can thus, lead to obesity-related illnesses like heart disease and certain cancers.

Types of Ginger for Weight Loss

There have been several ginger supplements and herb forms that have been successful in inducing weight loss. There is no scientific research to date on ginger and weight loss, and ginger has not been proven to burn off fat. However, ginger root tea, ginger spice, and ginger tincture are great for the digestive system. These ginger forms can help regulate and cleanse the intestinal tract, colon, liver, and reduce harmful fecal matter, eliminate intestinal parasites, and can neutralize cholesterol levels so that it can reduce unhealthy weight and belly fat.