Ginger may stimulate digestive processes and bile flow. People with gallstones or a history of gallbladder problems should ask their doctor before using large amounts of ginger medicinally, particularly concentrated extracts.
4. If you have frequent heartburn or reflux
Ginger can be soothing for some digestive complaints, but larger quantities can cause stomach irritation, heartburn, abdominal discomfort, or diarrhea in some people. If ginger consistently makes your reflux worse, reducing the amount or avoiding concentrated preparations may be appropriate.
5. If you take medication for diabetes
Ginger may influence blood-glucose levels. Someone taking insulin or glucose-lowering medication should be cautious about adding large amounts of ginger supplements because blood sugar could potentially become too low.
6. If you take medication for high blood pressure
Ginger may have modest effects on blood pressure in some people. If you already take blood-pressure medication, particularly if your blood pressure tends to run low, discuss regular high-dose ginger supplementation with your healthcare professional.
7. Before an operation
Because concentrated ginger products may potentially affect bleeding and interact with medications, tell your surgeon or anesthesiologist about supplements you regularly use. They can advise you whether to stop them before the procedure.
8. If ginger causes you digestive symptoms
Even without an underlying disease, large quantities can cause abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, heartburn, or mouth irritation. More is not necessarily better.
There is an important difference between using a small amount of fresh ginger in food and taking a concentrated ginger extract, capsule, or large daily dose. Many of the concerns about interactions apply more strongly to concentrated supplements than to ordinary culinary quantities.
Ginger should therefore not be portrayed as either a miracle medicine or a dangerous food that everyone must avoid. If you take prescription medication or have a chronic condition, the safest approach is to ask a healthcare professional or pharmacist about your particular situation.
And if you experience unusual bleeding, severe abdominal pain, fainting, difficulty breathing, or another serious reaction after taking a supplement, seek medical attention rather than trying to treat the reaction with another home remedy.
See more on the next page
