Ginger has a long history of use for relieving digestive problems such as nausea, loss of appetite, motion sickness and pain. Ginger is a popular root that adds a spicy zing and some awesome potential health benefits. Ginger ale is a popular type of soda made with ginger. Many people drink ginger ale to relieve nausea, but you can also enjoy it as an everyday beverage. Since ginger ale has been around for a long time, you may be wondering if it’s good for you or has any benefits. Manufacturers classify most commercial ginger ale as soda. They make ginger ale by mixing carbonated water with sugar or high fructose corn syrup and either natural or artificial ginger flavoring. Ginger ale often contains preservatives, like citric acid and sodium benzoate, as well as caramel color.
Some brands add other ingredients as part of their “natural flavoring.” These combinations of ingredients are proprietary blends, meaning that the companies keep them private.
However, a more traditional style of ginger ale is available in certain stores and online. This style is made with either yeast or ginger bug as a microbial starter culture. Ginger bug is similar to the SCOBY, or starter culture, used to make sourdough bread or kombucha. It’s derived from either the ginger beer plant or fresh ginger root. As it ferments, beneficial bacteria and yeasts grow and produce natural carbonation.
This traditionally prepared ginger ale also tends to contain more natural ingredients, such as cane sugar, fresh ginger root, and water, and not to include artificial colors. Ginger ale is a carbonated beverage made with ginger root and a sweetener. While most commercial ginger ales use high fructose corn syrup and artificial coloring, traditional ginger ale is fermented and tends to contain more natural ingredients.
This article explains the benefits and downsides of drinking ginger ale and reviews the different styles that are available.
A staff favorite at International Health Group, ginger is well known in many cultures and has historical significance. For a great article on ginger and its health benefits, check out Medical News today and this article by Medical News Today by Megan Ware RDN LD. Ware expl
Ginger is a common ingredient in Asian and Indian cuisine. However, ginger has been used for its medicinal properties for centuries among many cultures.
Ginger has a long history of use for relieving digestive problems such as nausea, loss of appetite, motion sickness and pain.
