The Most Common Side Effects of Ginger
Although the ginger is praised for its numerous therapeutic virtues, it is not devoid of undesirable effects. According to scientific studies, these mainly occur during excess or in people with certain sensitivities. Let's take a closer look at the most commonly reported annoyances.
Heartburn and reflux
Ginger presents an interesting duality regarding heartburn. On the one hand, it is known for its anti-inflammatory characteristics that can soothe inflammation of the esophagus and decrease stomach acid. On the other hand, excess can cause the opposite.
According to the European Medicines Agency, heartburn (dyspepsia) is a common disorder, observed in 1 to 10 patients in 100. Gingerol, the active compound that gives ginger its pungent, burning taste, can irritate the stomach lining when consumed in high doses.
Paradoxically, some sources recommend ginger to calm acid reflux thanks to its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties. However, this appears to be dose dependent - with relief turning to discomfort when recommended amounts are exceeded.
Bloating and gas
Bloating and flatulence are other undesirable complaints commonly reported when eating too much ginger. These digestive discomforts generally result from a disruption of the intestinal flora, particularly when doses are increased too quickly.
However, there is also a therapeutic paradox here. In moderate doses, ginger can help reduce bloating thanks to its carminative properties. It promotes the digestion, relaxes the intestines and ensures better transit. Therefore, it is often excess that turns a beneficial plant into a source of discomfort.
To avoid these inconveniences, it is recommended to gradually increase daily doses, especially for people who are not used to consuming it.
Diarrhea and nausea
Diarrhea is among the most common side effects of ginger, especially in cases of overconsumption. This reaction is explained by the stimulating action of ginger on the digestive system. When this stimulation becomes excessive, it can accelerate intestinal transit to the point of causing diarrhea.
Interestingly, ginger is frequently used to combat nausea, especially during pregnancy. However, in high doses, it can paradoxically cause them. This duality of action underlines the importance of respecting the recommended doses:
- Powder: up to 5g/day (about a teaspoon)
- Dried root: up to 1 teaspoon per day
- Fresh: 10 to 15g/day of rhizome
Heavy periods
A lesser known but significant disorder concerns the influence of ginger on menstruation. It may increase the volume of periods in some women. This is linked to the blood thinning properties that ginger possesses.
Periods are considered heavy when their duration exceeds 7 days and/or the total quantity exceeds 80ml per day. For women already suffering from menorrhagia (heavy periods), consuming ginger could therefore aggravate this problem.
Furthermore, the anti-inflammatory properties of ginger, which make it an ally against menstrual pain, can turn against users in the event of overconsumption. It is generally recommended not to exceed 4 cups of ginger tea per day to avoid increasing menstrual bleeding.
Respecting the recommended doses therefore remains the key to enjoying ginger while minimizing its adverse effects. Excessive consumption can quickly transform this spice with its many virtues into a source of significant inconvenience.
Medical contraindications to be aware of
Some people should absolutely avoid ginger consumption due to specific medical conditions. Despite its recognized virtues, this root can, in certain medical contexts, represent a real danger to health. Let's take a look at the main medical contraindications of ginger.
Coagulation disorders
Ginger has natural anticoagulant properties that inhibit blood clotting. This characteristic, beneficial in certain cases, becomes problematic for people already suffering from bleeding disorders. Ginger can amplify these problems and worsen existing blood disorders.
The consequences can vary from small bleeding to more serious hemorrhage. Furthermore, ginger is strongly not recommended before any surgical procedure or anesthesia. Its vasodilator properties considerably increase the risk of bleeding during the operation. The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has also issued a specific warning regarding the use of ginger in patients taking anticoagulant treatments, particularly warfarin.
Gallstones
Ginger is strictly contraindicated in cases of obstruction of the bile ducts, for two main reasons. Firstly, it has choleretic properties which stimulate the production of bile by the liver, which can be harmful in the presence of stones. Second, ginger contains minerals like phosphorus, calcium, and sodium, which in people with gallbladder disorders can promote the development or worsening of gallstones.
People suffering from stones or at risk of biliary obstruction should therefore consult a health professional before regular consumption of ginger.
Gastric ulcers
The active ingredients in ginger, notably gingerol and shogaol, may interact with certain drug treatments, including antacids used to treat gastric ulcers. This interaction can reduce the effectiveness of treatments or worsen symptoms.
Additionally, excessive consumption of ginger can cause irritation of the throat, mouth, and heartburn, which is particularly problematic for people with ulcers. Fresh, unchewed ginger also poses a risk of intestinal obstruction, a potentially serious complication for people with pre-existing digestive problems.
Drug interactions to watch out for
Although ginger has many therapeutic properties, its pharmacological action causes potentially serious drug interactions. Understanding these interactions can prevent dangerous health complications.
Anticoagulants and antiaggregants
Gingerol and shogaol, active compounds in ginger, thin the blood thanks to their vasodilator properties. This action can considerably amplify the effect of anticoagulant and antiplatelet drugs.
Diabetes medications
Several studies have demonstrated that ginger reduces blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. This hypoglycemic action, although beneficial in certain contexts, can become problematic when added to that of antidiabetic medications.
Thus, taking ginger and antidiabetics at the same time can cause an excessive drop in blood sugar levels. Therefore, people with diabetes should monitor their blood sugar levels more closely when consuming ginger.
Treatments for hypertension
Due to its vasodilator effects, ginger may reduce blood pressure in a manner similar to some blood pressure medications. This combined action can lead to sometimes severe hypotension.
As a precaution, people on hypotensive treatment should consult their doctor before regularly consuming ginger. Closer monitoring of blood pressure may be necessary to adjust medication doses if necessary.
Other plants and natural supplements
The danger of ginger also extends to its interactions with other medicinal plants. For example, the joint consumption of ginger and plants with anticoagulant properties can significantly increase the risk of bleeding.
Among these plants, we find in particular:
- Garlic and onion
- The turmeric
- Ginkgo biloba
- The ginseng
- The tonka bean
- The St. John's wort
According to the FDA, combining ginger with turmeric is particularly risky because their anticoagulant effects reinforce each other.
Likewise, certain plants having an effect on blood sugar levels such as aloe vera or cinnamon can, combined with ginger, cause severe hypoglycemia.
Faced with these numerous interactions, I strongly recommend consulting a health professional before undertaking any ginger treatment, particularly if you are already taking medication.
How to consume ginger safely
To benefit from it while minimizing the problems, some precautions are necessary. Following certain simple rules allows you to avoid the danger of ginger while benefiting from its medicinal characteristics.
Respect the recommended doses
Consumption of ginger is generally safe when the recommended doses are respected. However, too much can cause digestive problems such as heartburn and diarrhea. Experts recommend these maximum daily amounts:
- Fresh ginger: 10 to 15g per day (a slice 6-7mm thick)
- Powdered ginger: 1 to 4g per day (about 1 teaspoon)
- Dried ginger: 0.5 to 2g per day
- Ginger juice: just one shot daily, no more
Furthermore, it is advisable to gradually increase the doses, particularly for people not used to this spice.
Choosing the Right Form of Ginger
Ginger exists in various forms, each with its own specificities:
Fresh or dried ones are perfect for infusions (a slice in boiling water). To relieve nausea, you can chew a fresh slice directly.
Standardized food supplements offer a precise concentration of active ingredients. However, the daily dose should not exceed 1g to avoid any unwanted disorders.
In case of travel sickness, take ginger 30 to 60 minutes before departure for optimal effectiveness.
Avoid prolonged treatments without medical advice
Before undertaking a treatment, it is essential to consult your doctor. This consultation becomes essential if you are taking medication, because ginger can interact with many treatments, including anticoagulants and antidiabetics.
The World Health Organization formally advises against the use of ginger in children under six years old. As for pregnant women, the dose should not exceed 250mg of dried rhizome four times a day.
Finally, stop consuming ginger immediately if you notice any side effects like abdominal cramps or persistent heartburn.