A Common Kitchen Ingredient Can Help Reduce Blood Pressure And Control Sugar Levels

Today, there are lots of studies supporting the use of plants, fruits, and other natural ingredients in battling many diseases. Most lifestyle diseases stem out from unhealthy food choices and having a sedentary lifestyle.

A common kitchen ingredient can help reduce blood pressure and also, control blood sugar levels. Elevated blood pressure can lead to various adverse conditions, while a high blood sugar level can affect the heart, eyes, peripheral circulation, and the kidneys.

Ginger, spice believed to be a superfood, has medicinal properties.

For thousands of years, people have been using this root for cooking as well as healing of various conditions. Ginger (Zingiber officinale), is a flowering plant whose rhizome is widely used as a spice and ancient medicine.

Many studies have shown that ginger has antibacterial, antiviral, anti-parasitic, and anti-inflammatory properties. Plus, it contains many powerful antioxidants, such as shogaols, zingerones, and gingerols.

Ginger decreases blood pressure

People who have elevated blood pressure are at an increased risk of other potentially-life threatening medical conditions. Hence, controlling blood pressure is vital. Though there are antihypertensives in the market, there are many natural ingredients that can be used to address the problem, such as ginger.

Ginger helps prevent the formation of blood clots in the arteries. Blood clots impede the flow of blood through the circulatory system, which can aggravate high blood pressure. Since ginger can help prevent blood clots, it also aids in the prevention of diseases affecting the heart.

Ginger reduces bad cholesterol levels

Aside from decreasing the blood pressure, ginger contains chemical substances that can reduce blood cholesterol levels. Low-density lipoproteins (LDL) or bad cholesterol also contribute to cardiovascular diseases. Cholesterol can add to the stick plaque that deposits to the walls of arteries, further restricting blood flow.

Ginger controls blood sugar levels

Healthy spice ginger is low in carbohydrates and calories. Recent studies have shown that ginger can be effective for glycemic control in patients with elevated blood sugar levels. Plus, it has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity.

The spice can be consumed in various ways – in cooking, as a spice in various dishes, as a tea, and can be added to water or other beverages.