Now that you are pregnant, you may have heard some advice about herbal teas in your diet. Many moms say it can help you save yourself from the possible negative effects of being pregnant, like morning sickness. Herbal teas do indeed have many health benefits to offer. What are these uses and what are the benefits of ginger tea in pregnancy?
Getting To Know More About Ginger
A common ingredient in the kitchen, ginger is used either as a spice to meals or beverages. It is a flowering plant of the Zingiberaceae family, and it can be found in a variety of forms including:
- Fresh root
- Dried root powder and capsules (dry powder contained in a capsule)
- Liquid extract (preserved in syrup or sugar and as a tea)
Due to its anticholinergic and antiserotonergic actions, ginger acts peripherally within the gastrointestinal tract, increasing gastric tone and motility. It is also reported to increase gastric emptying. That explains why this herb is a popular traditional remedy for motion sickness, digestive issues, stomachache, and nausea.
People know ginger tea in pregnancy for its properties that relieve nausea and vomiting.
Benefits of Ginger Tea in Pregnancy
There are a number of teas that can:
- Aid in sleep
- Relieve an upset stomach
- Help with anxiety
Other kinds of tea may also specifically help pregnant women with pre-eclampsia and prepare your body for labor.
Ginger tea is one common type of herbal tea that provides benefits for nausea and vomiting, pain relief, and indigestion.
1. It Reduces Nausea and Vomiting
On top of the list of benefits is ginger’s notable ability to reduce symptoms of nausea and vomiting, especially in pregnant women.
According to a scientific review in 2015, ginger may alleviate nausea and vomiting that is often caused by pregnancy, chemotherapy, and motion sickness.
2. It Provides Pain Relief in Indigestion
Fresh ginger has a powerful chemical known as gingerol, which has antioxidant qualities and inhibits inflammatory enzymes. As a result, it could be a potential source of treatment for inflammatory diseases and pain alleviation.
Another study also mentioned that impaired stomach emptying worsens indigestion but ginger is there to help with this process.
3. It Improves Blood Sugar Regulation
Gingerol can perhaps explain ginger’s effect in maintaining blood sugar levels, which is critical for managing gestational diabetes, as well as the long-term health implications of type 2 diabetes.
Ginger hinders enzymes that break down carbohydrates, thus it aids in glucose (sugar) metabolism.
4. It Treats Colds and Sore Throat
Like any other hot drink, drinking ginger tea may also be helpful in treating colds, soothing sore throats, and even reducing congestion.
How Often Should You Take Ginger Tea in Pregnancy?
Herbal teas, like ginger tea, include natural ingredients, but that does not guarantee their safety. The amount of compounds in them may vary, and they may also contain some ingredients not specified on the label. These components may be passed on to your baby or they may react with other medications you are taking.
Regardless of what kind of herbal tea you are considering taking, it would be best if you limit yourself to only 1-2 glasses a day.
If you’re breastfeeding, look for any uncommon side effects in your child. Speak to a doctor if you observe anything that concerns you.
Key Takeaways
The humble ginger root has many uses and benefits. Not only can it be useful in the kitchen, but it also provides an incredible punch as it is rich in vitamin C, magnesium, and potassium.
Drinking ginger tea in pregnancy provides some welcome health benefits to prevent the discomfort many pregnant women experience.
Learn more about pregnancy here.
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