Health Benefits Of Ginger In Monsoon: Ways To Include It In Your Diet

Health wise I have always been a weak child. I catch cold easily and develop stomach problems as soon as I eat a bite of tempting street food. When entering the monsoon season, things are not always easy for me. Sneezing and coughing become common. As always, my mom has the perfect home remedy for me – ginger water for relief. Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and is an immunity booster. There are other reasons why ginger should be a part of your monsoon diet.

Health Shots consulted Dr. Mohd. Safir Haider, Consultant – Emergency Medicine, Cygnus Lakshmi Hospital, Varanasi, on ginger and its health benefits.

Include ginger in your monsoon diet. Image Courtesy: Pixabay

What are the benefits of ginger in monsoon?

Ginger can be beneficial in maintaining health and fighting certain health problems during the monsoon season. Here are the ways in which ginger can help in dealing with health issues during monsoon:

1. Increases immunity

The risk of infection and diseases is high during the rainy season. During this, ginger can help in strengthening the immune system. Dr Haider says that it contains antioxidants which protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Therefore, it supports overall immune function and reduces the risk of infection.

2. Provides relief from respiratory problems

Monsoon often brings dampness and humid conditions, which can aggravate respiratory problems like cough, cold and congestion. The natural expectorant properties of ginger can help ease respiratory problems by loosening mucus and promoting its elimination. It also has anti-inflammatory effects, which may help reduce inflammation in the airways and relieve respiratory symptoms.

3. Ginger aids digestion

Experts say that when it is completely wet and the humidity is high, the increased humidity can lead to digestive issues like indigestion, bloating and food-borne illnesses. Ginger acts as a digestive aid by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes, improving digestion, and reducing bloating and gas.

4. Fights Infection

The rainy season increases the risk of infections including viral and bacterial infections. Ginger has antimicrobial properties that may help fight certain pathogens. It can inhibit the growth of bacteria and viruses, potentially reducing the risk of respiratory and gastrointestinal infections.

5. Improves blood circulation

In monsoon, high humidity levels can affect blood circulation, causing lethargy and discomfort. Ginger has vasodilatory properties, says Dr. Haider, which means it can help expand blood vessels and improve blood flow. By increasing circulation, ginger promotes overall well-being and may reduce symptoms such as fatigue.

Consume ginger tea to keep health-related problems at bay during monsoon. Image Courtesy: shutterstock

How to include ginger in your diet?

You can effectively use ginger to deal with health problems that occur in monsoon. Here are some ways to include it in your diet:

1. Ginger tea

Prepare ginger tea by boiling fresh ginger pieces in hot water for 10 to 15 minutes. Sieve it and consume tea.

2. Ginger water

Cut fresh ginger into pieces and put it in a jug of water. Expert says to let it sit overnight and then drink it throughout the day to reap the benefits of ginger

3. Ginger in food

Add grated or chopped ginger to your food while cooking. It can add flavor to soups and curries.

4. Ginger Supplements

You can also opt for ginger supplements that come in capsule or tablet form. However, consult a doctor before starting any supplement.

Ginger may provide these potential benefits during monsoon, but it is not a substitute for maintaining good hygiene practices, staying hydrated and following a balanced diet.

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