What are ginger candies?
Ginger candies are candies that contain real ginger or ginger flavoring. The ginger gives them a spicy, warming taste that can help with nausea, digestion, and other health issues. Ginger candies often contain ginger powder or ginger oil as their main ingredients. They may also have sugar, corn syrup, and other flavorings. The candies come in many forms including hard candies, gummies, lozenges, gumdrops, and chocolates. Brands like Gin Gins, Chimes, and The Ginger People make popular ginger candy products.
Do ginger candies help with nausea?
Yes, ginger candies can help relieve nausea. Ginger has long been used as a natural remedy for nausea and vomiting. The compounds in ginger are thought to help relax the stomach and digestive system. Sucking on ginger candies stimulates saliva production, which can also help reduce nausea. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends taking 250 mg of ginger supplements 4 times a day to relieve morning sickness. Ginger candies contain varying amounts of ginger – look for ones with at least 500 mg per serving. Ginger candies provide a convenient way to get a quick dose of ginger to calm an upset stomach.
Can ginger candies help with digestion?
Ginger candies may aid digestion in several ways. Ginger increases the motility of the gastrointestinal tract – the contractions that move food through your system. This can help food and waste pass through more quickly. The gingerols and shogaols in ginger also help stimulate digestive juices like bile and saliva. Additionally, ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe intestinal inflammation and discomfort. Sucking on ginger candies delivers a concentrated dose of ginger compounds directly to the digestive tract. Look for ginger candies made with real ginger or ginger oil for the best digestive benefits.
Do ginger candies help with nausea from motion sickness or morning sickness?
Yes, clinical studies show ginger is effective at relieving nausea from both motion sickness and morning sickness. In a study of naval cadets unaccustomed to sailing in heavy seas, 1,000 mg of ginger taken before sailing significantly reduced vomiting and cold sweating. Ginger also outperformed dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) in reducing vertigo and nausea. For morning sickness, a review of 12 studies with over 1,200 pregnant women found taking ginger reduced nausea symptoms by 40%. Sucking on ginger candies provides fast relief by quickly delivering ginger to the bloodstream and digestive tract. Ginger candies are easily portable for managing motion sickness while traveling.
Can ginger candies help arthritis or joint pain?
Some studies suggest ginger may help reduce arthritis pain and inflammation. Ginger contains anti-inflammatory compounds called gingerols. In a study of 247 people with osteoarthritis of the knee, those who took a highly purified and concentrated ginger extract reduced their pain and need for pain medication. Another study found a combination of ginger, mastic, cinnamon, and sesame oil reduced knee pain and stiffness in osteoarthritis patients after 6 weeks. More research is still needed, but ginger candies may provide some relief for joint pain. Look for candies made with real ginger root or high-potency ginger oil. The warming sensation provides temporary relief while the ginger is in your mouth.
Do ginger candies help with heartburn?
Ginger candies can provide relief from occasional heartburn. Heartburn occurs when stomach acid leaks back up into the esophagus, causing a burning discomfort. The gingerols in ginger are thought to help tighten the lower esophageal sphincter, preventing acid reflux. Ginger also speeds up stomach emptying into the small intestine. This helps clear any excess acid and reduces the chance of reflux. Additionally, ginger’s anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe the inflamed esophageal lining. Sucking on ginger candies delivers the ginger right to the esophagus and stomach for quick relief. Make sure to choose candies made with real ginger.
Can ginger candies relieve migraine headaches?
Some studies suggest ginger may help provide relief for migraine headaches. In one study, a combination of ginger powder and a common migraine medication (rizatriptan) provided faster relief than just the medication alone. Patients had reduced migraine severity and fewer side effects when taking the ginger and medication combination. Another study found taking 250 mg of ginger powder 4 times a day reduced migraine frequency and intensity similar to the medication methysergide. Ginger’s anti-inflammatory compounds may block pain pathways involved in headaches. Try sucking on ginger candies when you feel a migraine coming on or with your medication.
Do ginger candies help fight infections?
Ginger does have antimicrobial and antiviral properties that may help fight infections. Ginger contains compounds called gingerols and shogaols that have been shown to fight bacteria, viruses, and fungi in lab studies. Fresh ginger extract has even been effective against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and the oral bacteria that causes gingivitis. Regularly consuming ginger may reduce the risk of infections. Sucking on ginger candies can deliver its antimicrobial compounds directly to the throat and mouth. Ginger candies won’t cure an active infection, but the warming sensation can temporarily relieve sore throats.
Can ginger candies boost immunity?
Some evidence suggests ginger may support a healthy immune system. Gingerols and other compounds in ginger have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. These properties can support immune cell function and inflammatory response. In one study, taking 2 grams of ginger powder per day reduced inflammation markers and increased antioxidant activity in a small group of healthy volunteers. More research is needed, but ginger candies may support immunity through chronic low-grade inflammation reduction. Look for candies made with real ginger root or high-potency ginger oil.
Do ginger candies help relieve allergy symptoms?
Ginger shows some potential for relieving congestion, coughs, and other allergy symptoms. Ginger has natural decongestant properties that may thin mucus secretions and open airways. It also has antihistamine effects, which could reduce allergic reactions and inflammation. One study found taking ginger capsules 3x per day helped relieve sneezing, runny nose, and itching in allergic rhinitis patients. More studies are needed, but sucking on ginger candies may offer temporary relief for seasonal allergy symptoms when congested. The warming sensation can soothe sore throats as well.
Can ginger candies help reduce gas and bloating?
Yes, ginger candies can be an effective remedy for gas and bloating. Gingerol compounds help speed up gastric emptying by increasing contractions of the digestive tract. This helps move food and gas out faster before it can lead to bloating. Ginger also helps relax the intestinal tract to release gas buildup. The anti-inflammatory properties of ginger may also calm any intestinal inflammation causing discomfort. If you feel gassy or bloated, suck on ginger candies to move gas out quicker. Choose real ginger candies, as artificial ginger flavor won’t have the same benefits.
Do ginger candies interact with any medications?
Ginger can potentially interact with some medications. Ginger affects digestion and absorption, so it may interfere with medications taken by mouth. Ginger may also increase the risk of bleeding by slowing blood clotting. People taking blood thinners or NSAID pain relievers should exercise caution with ginger. Some potential medication interactions include:
| Medication | Potential Interaction |
| Blood thinners | Increased risk of bleeding |
| NSAIDs | Increased risk of bleeding |
| Diabetes medications | May alter blood sugar control |
| Heart medications | May impact heart rate/rhythm |
Always check with your doctor or pharmacist about potential interactions with ginger candies and your regular medications. Reduce ginger candy intake if you notice any issues.
Are there any side effects or precautions with eating ginger candies?
Ginger candies are likely safe for most people when consumed in moderation. Some potential side effects can include:
– Heartburn – Ginger may aggravate heartburn in some people.
– Diarrhea – Large amounts of ginger may have a laxative effect.
– Irritation – Ginger can cause irritation if applied directly to the skin. Discontinue use if irritation occurs.
– Bleeding – Ginger may increase bleeding risk, especially in people taking blood thinners.
Other precautions for ginger candy include:
– Pregnancy – Talk to your doctor about safe ginger intake during pregnancy. Excess ginger may be unsafe.
– Diabetes – May alter blood sugar control. Monitor levels closely.
– Gallstones – Ginger may increase bile production. Use cautiously if you have gallstone issues.
– GERD – May aggravate symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
– Mouth irritation – Discontinue use if candies cause pain/irritation in the mouth.
Do ginger candies help with weight loss?
There is limited evidence that ginger candies can directly promote weight loss. However, ginger may support weight loss efforts in several ways:
– Enhances satiety – Ginger increases levels of appetite-reducing hormones like CCK and enhances feelings of fullness. This leads to lower overall calorie intake.
– Boosts metabolism – Compounds in ginger may help increase energy expenditure at rest, helping you burn slightly more calories.
– Reduces inflammation – The anti-inflammatory effects of ginger can help regulate inflammatory processes linked to obesity and metabolic disease.
– Improves digestion – Ginger stimulates digestion and absorption of nutrients, which improves calorie breakdown.
– Relieves constipation – Ginger’s effects on digestion can help relieve constipation, which aids weight loss efforts.
While not a miracle weight loss cure, ginger candies can support a healthy diet and lifestyle geared toward gradual sustainable fat loss. The appetite suppressing and digestive benefits are particularly useful.
Conclusion
Ginger candies can provide a range of potential health benefits. The ginger offers natural relief for nausea, digestion issues, inflammation, and pain. Ginger candies may aid several conditions including motion sickness, morning sickness, arthritis, headaches, and heartburn. They can also fight infections, support immunity, and relieve allergy symptoms. However, excessive ginger consumption can cause some side effects like heartburn, bleeding risk, and drug interactions. Most healthy adults can safely enjoy ginger candies in moderation as part of an overall healthy lifestyle. Just be cautious of potential medication interactions and talk to your doctor if you have any ongoing health concerns.