You probably know ginger as the spicy kick in ginger ale and a remedy for nausea. It’s also useful for weight loss. Ginger contains gingerols—compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties—that support overall health and can make it easier to lose weight.
Ginger helps digestion by stimulating the intestinal tract and keeping things moving. Good digestion improves nutrient absorption, which helps your body get the most from the food you eat. It also reduces nausea, which can prevent poor food choices when you’re not feeling well.
Ginger may boost metabolism. A higher metabolic rate means your body burns more calories doing basic functions like digestion and tissue repair, so you use more energy even at rest. Ginger can also help lower blood sugar after some carb-rich meals, which helps avoid spikes that can hinder weight loss.
Ginger supports the immune system, too. It stimulates the lymphatic system, helping fluids move through the body and keeping lymph nodes from becoming blocked. This can aid the removal of toxins and help you stay healthy while dieting. Some research even suggests ginger has antibacterial effects against certain germs, though it shouldn’t replace medical treatment.
Drinking ginger tea with meals may increase feelings of fullness and slightly raise the calories burned during digestion, according to recent studies. That can curb snacking and add a small boost to your daily calorie burn.
There are many ways to add ginger to your routine. Fresh ginger simmered in water makes a strong tea rich in gingerols. You can also grate it into stir-fries, smoothies, soups, salad dressings, or marinades. If you don’t like the taste, ginger supplements are an alternative.
Don’t overdo it—moderation is key. A few cups of ginger tea a day or the recommended dose on a supplement label is generally safe for most people. Adding ginger to your daily routine is easy and may offer a modest but helpful boost to your weight-loss efforts.
