A Daily Ginger Shot as an Immune Booster

I’ve tried nearly every possible morning routine for that morning boost. Many I have found on TikTok or the internet in general.  While few have stood the test of time, there’s one that I think will last for me.  A daily ginger shot.  I used an immune booster when I felt a cold coming on like a vitamin C tablet, a shot glass of turmeric, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, honey and cayenne pepper, but I believe that the humble ginger shot may find a permanent place in my morning routine. In fact, I’m so impressed with the results that I am hearing about that I think it should be an addition to everyone’s day—right up there with lemon water, apple cider vinegar, coffee with MCT oil, and adaptogenic fungi.

There are a ton of benefits to consuming ginger, and especially if you do it every day: “Ginger looks so inconspicuous from the outside, but it hides a wide range of medically effective ingredients inside,” explains Dr. Roman Huber, head of the University Center for Naturopathy in Freiburg. “For these reasons, it’s a remedy that is often used in naturopathy.”  The benefits of taking a ginger shot every day are: Ginger stabilizes the blood sugar.  Food cravings and midday lows are often the work of unbalanced blood sugar. Ginger, on the other hand, works to stabilize; it supports glucose uptake into cells and increases insulin. (This property is currently being investigated as a therapeutic approach for patients with type 2 diabetes.) Controlling blood sugar spikes and crashes is important, not just for managing weight but because it helps us maintain a consistent energy level, feel less tired, and stay positive.

Ginger boosts the immune system.  In Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine, ginger has long been used as a remedy; today, the ready-made ginger shots in the supermarket often attract people with promises of “immune boosting.” Rightly so: ginger is rich in iron, magnesium, vitamins B6 and C, zinc, and antioxidants that help protect cells from damage. It also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and stimulates blood circulation in the mucous membranes which helps the respiratory system flush toxins. All of this adds up to support the immune system in a big way.  Ginger aids digestion.  Gas and bloating become a thing of the past when ginger enters your daily repertoire. Ginger helps speed food through the GI tract, promotes stomach emptying, protects the gut microbiomes, and can even help reduce bloating and gas. It can also help ease nausea.

After reading up on the many benefits of taking a ginger shot every day, I have to find out for myself. So, the plan is to stock up on ginger and start my test: a ginger shot every day for a whole month.  Here is what friends have told me with their monthly routine from day one.  “On the first morning, I noticed that I feel refreshed and awake right away after my shot. However, I will admit, it did burn a bit going down—but that’s to be expected; ginger can be kind of spicy, after all. After the first week, I actually began to love the morning kick. I also felt more energetic and more awake—both mentally and physically. These uplifted feelings remained for the next few weeks and my usual afternoon cravings for something sweet also decreased. After a month it was clear: I no longer wanted to miss out on my morning ginger shot. And, I’ve kept it up. My energy levels have significantly increased, and I feel more productive because I can concentrate better and am less easily irritated. (It’s amazing how a low mood can be caused by low energy and sugar spikes!!) Of course, having a stronger immune system also feels pretty good.  I didn’t have the slightest hint of a scratchy throat throughout the last month. Of course, I know this improved immunity won’t last forever; even the all-powerful ginger root can’t prevent some diseases. But overall, I’ve found that it’s a really helpful immune booster, especially during flu and cold season.”

Here is how to get the full benefits of ginger shots.  Though a little ginger is better than no ginger at all, it’s definitely best to consume ginger consistently. Studies show that the benefits of eating ginger daily include reduced cholesterol levels and balanced insulin, so try to drink your ginger shot every day to reap the full body-supporting effects. And, of course, continue your other healthy habits for maximum health: getting sufficient exercise, eating a balanced diet, and getting sufficient sleep.  Ginger shots are readily available everywhere, but keep in mind that there are significant differences in quality when it comes to the ready-made versions purchased at the average supermarket. There are many health food stores and spas that have them.  For those who live in Boquete, visit the Haven Spa and ask for the list of healthy shots they make up.  Look for cold pressed, unheated ginger shots; these will have the most intact vitamins and nutrients. And, make sure your ginger shot does not contain added sugar or glucose-spiking juices like orange or apple. Do your due diligence and check the label.  Or, better yet, make your own ginger shots at home by simply blending fresh ginger root in a high powered blender. If you go that route, try adding a squeeze of fresh lemon, a dash of cayenne, and a bit of Manuka honey for an extra immune boost.  To your health……..Salute