Potential Health Benefits & Risks of Ginger for Type 2 Diabetes


Chronic Type II diabetes is characterized by an inability of the body to use insulin to regulate blood sugar levels efficiently. Insulin, a hormone secreted by the pancreas, helps carry blood glucose into the cells required for cellular energy. High blood glucose levels in type-II diabetes are brought on by insufficient insulin synthesis or resistance to its effects.

Obesity, physical inactivity, age, and family history are all Type-II diabetes risk factors. Frequent urination, increased thirst, blurred vision, tiredness, and sluggish wound healing are a few symptoms that are usually present.

Ginger is a popular spice that has long been employed for traditional healing. It is thought to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that could benefit individuals with Type-II diabetes. According to some studies, ginger may improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels in individuals with Type-II diabetes.

However, more research is required to ascertain the long-term effects of ginger on type-II diabetes. Additionally, it is essential to remember that certain medications, such as blood thinners and ginger, may interact, so it is advisable to consult a doctor before taking any ginger supplements. Ginger has both potential benefits and risks. A few of them are mentioned below.

Potential Health Benefits of Ginger

  • Lowering Blood Sugar Levels − One of ginger’s main advantages for type-II diabetes is its ability to reduce blood sugar levels. According to research, ginger can help enhance glucose uptake in cells and increase insulin sensitivity, lowering blood sugar levels.

  • Anti-Inflammatory Qualities − Type-II diabetes and many of its complications are believed to be influenced by inflammation. It has been demonstrated that ginger has strong anti-inflammatory properties, which may aid in reducing body inflammation and enhancing blood sugar management. In one study, individuals with Type-II diabetes who took ginger supplements had lower levels of inflammatory markers, according to the Journal of Diabetes and its Complications.

  • Improved Heart Health − Heart illness is more likely to affect people with Type II diabetes. By lowering risk factors for heart disease like high blood pressure and high cholesterol, ginger may provide some defense against the condition.

  • Potential Anti-cancer properties − According to some research, ginger may have anti-cancer properties. This could be especially advantageous for those with Type II diabetes as it is linked to a higher risk of developing cancer.

However, there are also a few health risks related to the consumption of ginger for type-II diabetes. Some of them are −

  • Risk of bleeding − Ginger includes substances with anti-platelet and anti-coagulant properties, which can prevent blood clotting. Although those with Type-II diabetes, with a greater risk of cardiovascular disease and, may benefit from this, it also raises the possibility of bleeding. For instance, if a person with Type-II diabetes also takes drugs like aspirin or warfarin, which have anti-platelet or anti-coagulant effects, consuming ginger may increase the chance of bleeding. Therefore, those with Type-II diabetes taking medications that impact blood clotting should avoid ingesting ginger or talk to their doctor before doing so.

  • Blood sugar levels − Managing blood sugar levels is one of the main concerns for people with Type-II diabetes. Although ginger has been demonstrated to have hypoglycemic effects, which means it may lower blood sugar levels, those already taking medications to control their blood sugar levels may experience risks. Ginger consumption may cause blood sugar levels to decline too low, resulting in hypoglycemia in people with Type-II diabetes who take medications such as insulin or metformin.

  • Interaction with medication − Finally, ginger may interact with some frequently taken by Type-II diabetes patients, like insulin or oral hypoglycemic drugs. In particular, ginger may intensify the effects of these drugs, increasing the risk of hypoglycemia. So, before taking ginger or any other supplements to control their blood sugar levels, one should speak with their doctor to make sure it is safe and suitable for them.

Conclusion

Ginger may have health advantages for people suffering from Type-II diabetes. According to studies, ginger may increase insulin sensitivity, control blood sugar levels, and reduce inflammation. Additionally, ginger may benefit arterial health and support weight loss. Ginger should not be used in the absence of medical consultation. Further, those with diabetes should exercise caution when consuming significant quantities of ginger because it may interact with some medications and have negative effects. Overall, more research is required to comprehend how ginger affects the treatment of diabetes completely.

Updated on: 20-Apr-2023

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