I’m sitting here at my desk thinking of ideas to share, I’m sipping on a ginger tea that my wife has kindly brewed for me. Being in South Korea as an expat, I’ve come to learn and love the different ways that ingredients in Asian medicine are used. I’m French Canadian so I’ve never really drunk, eaten, or snacked on anything that had the strong taste of ginger while growing up. Let alone ginger shots…
But now, being here for over 20 years I have come to love most food and ingredients that, more often than not, are an effective treatment for some ailment. Fresh ginger is used in food recipes, side dishes, drinks, and candies. It’s also used for sore throats and colds as it’s known for its immune-boosting properties, for example.
Ginger shots have become popular in recent years due to their numerous health benefits. Packed with powerful compounds, ginger shots can provide a natural boost to the immune system, aid in weight loss, and even alleviate joint pain.
In my article, I’ll explore the awesome benefits of ginger shots for men, as well as an easy recipe to incorporate it into your daily routine. But first, let’s check out what ginger shots are and how you can make some at home.
What are Ginger Shots?
Ginger shots are concentrated drinks made from fresh ginger root. The ginger root is juiced or blended with other ingredients like lemon juice or orange juice to enhance its flavor and provide additional health benefits. These shots are usually consumed in one gulp and because of their potent taste are served in small shot glasses. Ginger shots are an easy way to incorporate the health benefits of ginger into your daily routine.
9 Health Benefits of Ginger Shots
1. Boosts the Immune System
One of the key benefits of ginger shots is their ability to boost the immune system. Ginger contains compounds that have antibacterial and antiviral properties, making it an excellent natural remedy to ward off illnesses and infections. Consuming ginger shots can help strengthen the immune system and keep you healthy.
2. Supports Weight Loss
For men looking to shed some extra pounds, ginger shots can be a valuable addition to their weight loss journey. Ginger has been found to increase metabolism and reduce feelings of hunger, which can aid in weight loss efforts. Adding ginger shots to your daily routine may help you achieve your weight loss goals.
3. Improves Digestive Health
Ginger has long been used to alleviate digestive issues such as bloating, indigestion, and nausea. Ginger shots can help soothe the digestive tract, improve bowel movements, and reduce stomach discomfort. If you struggle with your digestive system, incorporating daily ginger shots into your routine may provide relief.
4. Reduces Inflammation
Chronic inflammation is a common underlying factor in many health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis. Similar to cloves, ginger contains powerful anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce inflammation in the body.
Regular consumption of ginger may contribute to better overall health and a reduced risk of chronic inflammation-related diseases.
5. Supports Brain Function
Ginger has been shown to have neuroprotective properties, meaning it can help protect the brain against oxidative stress and inflammation. The antioxidants found in ginger shots may improve brain function and cognitive abilities.
There are several foods that contain antioxidants to help with brain function: Broccoli, Dark Chocolate, Coffee, Almonds, and Walnuts. But, simply adding ginger shots to your daily routine could help boost your brain health.
6. Regulates Blood Sugar Levels
Maintaining stable blood sugar levels is crucial for overall health, especially for men at risk of developing diabetes. Ginger has been found to improve insulin sensitivity and regulate blood sugar levels. Incorporating ginger shots into your diet may help lower the risk of developing diabetes and improve blood sugar control.
7. Alleviates Joint Pain
Many men experience joint pain, especially as they age. (That’s me…only 46, but feeling some pain!) Ginger shots have been found to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce joint pain and inflammation. Regular consumption of ginger shots may provide relief for those dealing with joint discomfort.
8. Eases Morning Sickness
For dads-to-be, ginger shots can be a natural remedy to alleviate morning sickness in their partners. Ginger has long been used to reduce nausea and vomiting, particularly in pregnant women. By incorporating ginger shots into their routine, dads can provide support and relief to their partners during this special time.
9. Eases Motion Sickness
If you or the kids suffer from motion sickness, homemade ginger shots might just do the trick.
The Most Common Types of Ginger
In The West
-Common Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
- This is the most widely used ginger variety in the West.
- It has a pale, tan skin and is often available in supermarkets.
- The flavor is pungent and slightly sweet.
In The East
-Chinese or Yellow Ginger
- Commonly used in Chinese cuisine, this type of ginger has a yellowish skin.
- It is slightly milder in taste compared to the common ginger found in the West.
-Indian or White Ginger
- Used extensively in Indian cooking, this ginger has a pale skin and is known for its strong, peppery flavor.
- It’s a key ingredient in many Indian spice blends.
-Myoga Ginger
- Myoga is not the root but the flower bud of a ginger plant used in Korean cuisine.
- It has a mild, slightly tangy taste and is often used in pickles, salads, and garnishes.
Ginger Shot Recipes
Making ginger shots at home is a simple and cost-effective way to enjoy their health benefits. Here’s a quick and easy recipe to make your own shots.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh ginger root, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- Optional: honey or agave syrup for sweetness
Instructions
- Place the chopped ginger in a blender or juicer and extract the juice.
- In a separate container, mix the ginger juice with lemon juice and orange juice.
- If desired, add honey or agave syrup to sweeten the ginger shots.
- Pour the mixture into small shot glasses and consume in one gulp.
Recipe With Black Pepper and Apple Cider Vinegar
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh ginger root, peeled and chopped or grated
- 1/2 cup lemon juice(optional)
- 1/2 cup orange juice(optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (for added spice)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
++ 1 cup has approx 120 grams of ginger
++ You can substitute the black pepper with cayenne pepper too.
Instructions
- Place the chopped ginger in a blender or juicer and extract the juice.
- In a separate container, mix the ginger juice with lemon juice, orange juice, black pepper, and apple cider vinegar.
- If desired, add honey or agave syrup to sweeten the ginger shots.
- Pour the mixture into small shot glasses and consume in one gulp.
Differences between Ginger Water and Ginger Shots
- Ginger Shots: Concentrated mix of ginger juice along with other ingredients like lemon and orange juice, black pepper, and apple cider vinegar. Usually consumed in small quantities due to its intense flavor and potency.
- Ginger Water: Typically involves steeping fresh ginger slices or grated ginger in hot or cold water to infuse the liquid with ginger’s flavor. Ginger water is milder compared to ginger shots. This is what my wife handed to me early today… We also do the stronger ‘shot’ version when we have the time.
Negative Points of Ginger Shots for Men
While there are numerous ginger shot benefits, it’s important to consider potential side effects and risks. Here are two negative points to be aware of:
- Upset Stomach: Some individuals may experience upset stomach, heartburn, or reflux when consuming ginger shots, especially on an empty stomach. It’s important to start with small amounts and monitor your body’s reaction.
- Interaction with Medications: Ginger has blood-thinning effects and may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners like warfarin. If you’re taking any medications, it’s best to consult with your healthcare provider before incorporating ginger supplements into your routine.
Last Shot!
These raw ginger root shots offer dads a convenient and natural way to boost their health and support their overall well-being as part of a healthy diet. The benefits of ginger shots are awesome, from strengthening the immune system to aiding in weight loss and alleviating joint pain.
By incorporating ginger supplementation into their daily routine, dads can take proactive steps towards better health and enjoy the spicy kick of this powerful root.
Note: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet or lifestyle.
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