Short Answer: Ginger tea is good for IBS. Because it has gingerols and shogaols and they can relax the intestinal muscles, reduce gas and bloating, and ease abdominal pain.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a condition that affects your digestive system and causes symptoms like stomach cramps, bloating, diarrhea and constipation.
In IBS, your body has abnormal muscle contractions in the intestines, which can affect the movement of food and waste.
This can lead to various health problems, such as malabsorption, dehydration, hemorrhoids and anxiety.
One of the key factors in managing IBS is diet.
What you consume can affect your gut bacteria, which can impact your IBS symptoms and overall health.
To effectively manage IBS, you should consume fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables and whole grains and avoid fat-rich foods like fried foods, cheese and butter.
Now, ginger tea is a beverage made by boiling the peeled root of ginger in water or milk.
People usually drink it to soothe their throat, warm their body or relieve nausea.
Ginger tea is good for IBS because it contains gingerols and shogaols, which are anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic compounds.
These compounds can help relax the intestinal muscles, reduce gas and bloating, and ease abdominal pain.
Ginger tea may also help with IBS-D (diarrhea-predominant) and IBS-M (mixed bowel habits) by slowing down the intestinal transit and increasing the absorption of fluids.
One cup of ginger tea can give you about 0.1 grams of gingerols and shogaols, which is enough to have a beneficial effect on your gut.
Ginger tea also provides some antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, magnesium and potassium.
Gingerols and shogaols can positively affect IBS by modulating the nervous system, immune system and digestive system.
They can also inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are molecules that trigger inflammation in the body.
Furthermore, ginger tea is a herbal tea and herbal teas are good for IBS.
Because, they can hydrate your body, calm your mind and support your digestion.
You can drink two to three cups of ginger tea per day safely.
More than that can cause heartburn, stomach upset or mouth irritation.
Also, you shouldn’t drink ginger tea if you have gallstones, bleeding disorders or are taking blood thinners to prevent complications.
Because, ginger tea can increase the bile flow, interfere with blood clotting and interact with some medications.
You can buy fresh ginger in your local market or can order it online.
Always choose firm, smooth and unblemished ginger.
Because, these are signs of freshness and quality.
You can store them in a cool, dry place for up to three weeks or in the refrigerator for up to two months.
You can also buy ginger tea bags or prepared teas online or offline.
To buy it online, there are many brands and marketplaces to choose from.
But as a nutritionist I recommend Organic India from Amazon.
Because, they use organic, ethically sourced and high quality ginger.
Finally, remember, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management and essential medical care is key to managing IBS effectively.
I always recommend my IBS patients to follow an IBS-friendly diet to improve their overall well-being, and enjoy a longer and healthier life.