Pregnancy is a time of transformation, both emotionally and physically. As you might expect, the creation of a new life causes numerous changes in the pregnant woman’s body; hormone levels rise, nausea and digestive problems become frequent, the immune system weakens, the risk of inflammation increases, and blood sugar levels are more difficult to control. On many occasions, these symptoms lead to the use of medicines or folk remedies for pregnant women , such as ginger .1
The ginger root is widely used in the natural treatment of many health conditions, and the look is a good supplement to relieve the discomforts of pregnancy common; However, before consuming it, it is very important to be informed about the correct dose , the possible risks of excessive use, the best forms of consumption and its main benefits for pregnant women.
Index
Can you take ginger in pregnancy?
There is some scientific debate about whether or not ginger is safe during pregnancy. Many claim that ginger supplementation does not represent any danger at this stage, while others claim that its use can cause negative effects on the gestation process. Taking into account that until now there is not enough evidence to confirm any of these claims, the most accepted opinion is that ginger can be taken in pregnancy , as long as it is done responsibly and in moderation .2, 3.
Similar to popular wisdom, several studies have observed that the active compounds (gingerols) in this ancient tuber can provide healthy benefits, as well as effectively alleviate some of the common symptoms during pregnancy, especially morning sickness and vomiting.
What are the benefits of ginger in pregnancy?
Relief from morning sickness
This is arguably the main benefit of ginger for pregnant women. Morning sickness (morning sickness ), which can range from mild nausea to frequent vomiting, is a common symptom of early pregnancy, affecting nearly 80% of women during the first trimester . This medicinal property is believed to be derived from its ability to promote proper stomach emptying, as well as its effect on brain receptors that moderates nausea.4, 5.
Most researchers have concluded that moderate consumption of ginger is an effective and safe remedy for nausea during pregnancy ; in fact, many practitioners and institutions now recommend drinking ginger tea, ginger ale, and eating ginger chewy gummies as the first line of treatment before prescribing the use of antiemetic medications.6
Strengthening the immune system
In pregnancy, the immune system is weakened; This means that women become more susceptible to colds , flu, and other common illnesses. Thanks to its antioxidant properties7 , immunological and antimicrobial, ginger can help prevent and fight the development of infections caused by viruses, fungi and bacteria.
Cold and cough prevention
As it has an immune effect, ginger is a good recommendation to keep colds at bay during pregnancy. Its regular consumption not only helps prevent, but also accelerates recovery after infection , relieving bothersome symptoms such as body aches, digestive problems and persistent cough, among others.
It may interest you: Ginger for Cough: How to Use (Tea, Syrup), Contraindications and Dosage
Improved digestion / Prevention of constipation and gas
During pregnancy, digestion slows down to allow the fetus to better absorb nutrients. This causes heaviness, bloating, and excess gas. A good recommendation is to drink fresh ginger juice with honey, or chew a piece of the root before going to bed, as this improves digestion and prevents the accumulation of gases that leads to abdominal distention.
On the other hand, due to hormonal and anatomical changes, approximately 50% of women experience constipation at some point during their pregnancy. Ginger is believed to have stimulating effects on the digestive tract, which can prevent constipation and promote regular bowel movements.8
Control of blood glucose levels
Pregnant women who have diabetes or who have developed gestational diabetes often find that it is particularly difficult to control their blood sugar levels. Different studies have indicated that the consumption of ginger reduces the levels of glucose and hemoglobin A1c in the fasting state9 , helping to maintain the good health of the mother and her future baby. In addition to moderating your carbohydrate intake, consuming ginger can be agood strategy to control blood sugar, increase energy levels, and combat fatigue.
Reduction of inflammation in the body
While having some swelling is a natural part of pregnancy, excessive swelling is linked to negative effects on the baby , specifically its brain growth and development. The phytochemicals present in ginger (gingerols and shogaols) have been shown to decrease the same inflammation markers that have been associated with these complications.10
Other benefits
In addition to the above benefits, ginger has been linked to the following favorable effects in pregnancy:
- Increased blood supply for the baby . By causing an increase in blood circulation, consuming ginger promotes a better blood supply to the growing fetus.
- Healthier cholesterol levels . Ginger helps regulate blood cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of high cholesterol during pregnancy.11
- Better absorption of nutrients . Infections, poor eating habits, and other factors can hamper the body’s ability to absorb nutrients. Ginger is said to promote better absorption of the necessary nutrients for the mother and the baby before birth.
- Control of heartburn . When consumed in the proper doses, ginger is an excellent remedy for treating heartburn associated with pregnancy. It is recommended to drink fresh ginger tea and honey, or a homemade ginger ale.
- Relaxation of the muscles . Sometimes pregnancy can affect the bones and muscles, leading to back pain, sciatica and foot pain. Drinking 1 cup of ginger tea a day is an effective way to relieve sore bones, joints, and muscles.12.
- More pleasant sexual relations . Ginger is a recognized natural aphrodisiac. Being a spicy spice, it has been proven to help warm the body, raise energy levels, and increase blood circulation, especially to the genitals.13
It may interest you: 15 Benefits and Healing Properties of Ginger – What is it for?
How Much Ginger Is Safe For Pregnancy?
Although the RDA for ginger ranges from 1 to 4 grams (1000-4000 mg), pregnant and lactating women should maintain a much lower intake. To date, it is considered that the daily dose of ginger in pregnancy should not exceed 1500 mg (1.5 grams). Likewise, it is always recommended to consult your doctor before using this or any other herbal remedy / supplement.
Ways to consume ginger in pregnancy
Ginger is usually available in the form of candies , chewy gummies, drinks, capsules and other formulations, but it is best to use the root in its natural state.
Note : pregnant women should avoid dried ginger powder, as this alternative is associated with an increased risk of side effects.
Undoubtedly, one of the most popular and effective forms of consumption is ginger tea , which is usually drunk in the morning on an empty stomach , before meals or just before going to bed. Its preparation is very simple, as explained below:
- Bring 1 cup of water to a boil, or microwave for about 2 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cut a small piece of ginger root, remove the skin and chop it into very thin slices.
- Once the water has boiled, add the slices and let it rest for 5 minutes to release the natural oils from the rhizome; thus you will obtain a more powerful ginger infusion.
- After that time, add several drops of honey or stevia to sweeten (optional) and drink immediately.
Drinking ginger tea in pregnancy is a good remedy to keep nausea, vomiting and indigestion at bay. If you are used to taking it several times a day, be sure to control the amount of root you use each time so as not to exceed the total recommended dose.
See later:
- Ginger Tea – Properties, Popular Combinations (Lemon, Cinnamon, Honey) and More
- What is the Ginger used for on an empty stomach (Tea, Water, Shots)? [Resolved]
- Is It Good To Drink Ginger Tea Before Sleep? Benefits and Risks
Other ways to include ginger in a pregnant woman’s diet are:
- Add finely grated ginger to steamed vegetables, roasted root vegetables, soups, creams, and stir-fry vegetables.
- Use fresh ginger to flavor meat and fish. Note : according to statements14 of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the FDA, some safe fish in pregnancy are sardines, salmon, tilapia and sea bass.
- Chew tiny pieces of the root just before getting up in the morning.
It may interest you: 8 Ways to Take Ginger to Maximize its Benefits
Risks and contraindications
In most cases, pregnant women who adhere to the recommended dose of ginger do not experience adverse side effects or put their baby at risk, however it is important to take into account some contraindications and associated dangers.
In general, you should consult your doctor and proceed with caution if you are pregnant and:
- You take medicine to control blood pressure, regulate blood glucose levels (diabetes), or to correct a blood clotting disorder.
- You have a history of miscarriage or dysfunctional vaginal bleeding.
- You suffer from any chronic health problem.
Inappropriate or excessive use of ginger in pregnancy, especially ginger powder, can increase the risk of 15:
- Heavy bleeding
- Uterine contractions prematurely
- Spontaneous abortion
- Heartburn and diarrhea
- Palpitations
- Congenital defects in the fetus (not enough scientific evidence) 16
Read more in: Ginger Contraindications – Side Effects and Correct Dosage
Frequent questions
Can I have ginger and lemon in pregnancy?
Yes. Drinking a warm infusion of ginger and lemon can help calm stomach discomfort and reduce feelings of nausea during pregnancy. Likewise, it is advisable to always have a lemon on hand to smell it or suck its juice.17
Is it safe to drink cinnamon and ginger tea if I am pregnant?
It is safe as long as it is consumed with great caution, without exceeding the recommended dose. Both of these spices have been linked to an increased risk of miscarriage, especially if consumed in excess during the first weeks of pregnancy. Several researchers point out that its use should be completely avoided at this stage.
Read more about this topic in: Ginger and Cinnamon
Are ginger root capsules safe during pregnancy?
Although some specialists often recommend the use of these supplements (1 daily dose of 1000 mg) to reduce morning sickness, keep in mind that you should never take ginger capsules without the approval of your doctor . In case of obtaining their consent, opt for capsules from a recognized vendor, whose raw material comes from an organic source.
Are ginger gummies and chews for pregnant women safe?
Yes. Generally, ginger chews are made from real ginger root and contain all of its natural active compounds. They are smooth, pleasant, and can be used to make an instant ginger tea. Eating half a piece of candy can provide immediate relief from nausea. Again, you only owe these products with the approval of your doctor.
Will taking or eating ginger during my pregnancy cause birth defects?
After checking the effects of supplementing with 1000 mg of ginger daily, several studies found no real link between ginger consumption and a significant increase in the probability of birth defects. The number of birth defects found was in the expected range, 3-5%, this being the same value that was observed in women who did not take ginger.
Is there a risk to pregnancy if the father of the baby has eaten a lot of ginger?
So far there have been no studies that analyze how the use of ginger in men can affect pregnancy in women. In general, it is unlikely that excessive exposure to ginger by the father represents a risk for the proper development of the future baby.
References:
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5920415/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25093607
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/gingerol
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5920415/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4818021/
- http://americanpregnancy.org/pregnancy-health/morning-sickness-relief/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3665023/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4389350/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4277626/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19833188
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5835308/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22781186
- http://www.academicjournals.org/app/webroot/article/article1380793416_Alhowiriny%20et%20al.pdf
- https://www.fda.gov/Food/ResourcesForYou/Consumers/ucm393070.htm
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5920415/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25093607
- http://americanpregnancy.org/pregnancy-health/morning-sickness-relief/
My name is Louise Hammond, and I am the creator of this website, a place to find information about tubers, bulbs and medicinal roots. In Dreamsship.com I show the properties, benefits, characteristics, photos and images, ways of growing and how to make delicious meals from starchy vegetables.