Ginger Is Great—but Not for Everyone: 5 Situations to Be Careful With
Ginger is a popular spice used in cooking, teas, and traditional remedies. It may have benefits for nausea and digestion, but more isn’t always better. Ginger can also interact with certain medications or aggravate symptoms in some people.
Here are 5 situations where you should be cautious with ginger.
1. If You Take Blood-Thinning Medication
Ginger may have effects on platelet aggregation, so people taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medicines should be cautious about consuming large amounts of ginger or concentrated ginger supplements.
If you’re taking medication such as warfarin, apixaban, rivaroxaban, clopidogrel, or aspirin regularly, ask your healthcare professional before using high-dose ginger supplements.
2. If You Have Low Blood Sugar
Ginger may have a modest effect on blood glucose in some circumstances. If you take insulin or medication that lowers blood sugar, consuming large amounts of ginger or concentrated supplements could potentially contribute to low blood sugar.
Monitor your glucose as recommended by your healthcare professional.
3. If You Have Acid Reflux or a Sensitive Stomach
Ginger can be soothing for some digestive problems, but larger amounts may cause heartburn, stomach discomfort, diarrhea, or mouth irritation in some people.
If ginger consistently makes your symptoms worse, reduce the amount or avoid it.
4. Before Surgery
Because concentrated ginger may affect blood clotting, it is sensible to tell your healthcare team about ginger supplements before a planned operation.
Your healthcare professional can advise whether you should stop supplements before surgery.
5. If You Take Multiple Medications
Herbal supplements can interact with medications, and concentrated ginger products contain much higher amounts than the ginger normally used in food.
If you take prescription medication regularly, ask a pharmacist or doctor before starting a high-dose ginger supplement.
How Much Ginger Is Reasonable?
For most healthy adults, the amounts of ginger commonly used in food and tea are generally well tolerated. Problems are more likely with large amounts or concentrated supplements.
Listen to your body and stop using ginger if it causes significant discomfort or unusual symptoms.
Bottom Line
Ginger can be a useful ingredient in a balanced diet, but it isn’t appropriate to assume that a natural product is automatically safe for everyone. People taking certain medications, managing blood sugar, experiencing reflux, or preparing for surgery should take extra care with concentrated ginger products.
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Ginger has potential health benefits, but some people should use caution. Learn about five situations involving medications, blood sugar, reflux, surgery, and high-dose ginger supplements.