What are the benefits of Trader Joe’s ginger shot?
Trader Joe’s ginger shots have become a popular health drink in recent years. These small, potent beverages promise to pack a punch of benefits in just a few ounces. But what exactly are the perks of sipping this spicy elixir? Let’s explore the potential benefits of Trader Joe’s fan-favorite ginger shots.
What is Trader Joe’s Ginger Shot?
Trader Joe’s ginger shot is a concentrated beverage made from fresh ginger root, lemon juice, carrots, apples, and other natural ingredients. It contains no artificial flavors, sweeteners, or preservatives. Each 2-ounce bottle packs a spicy, tangy punch thanks to its high ginger content. It can be enjoyed straight up as a quick shot, or diluted into water or tea for a milder ginger flavor.
Compared to other ginger shots on the market, Trader Joe’s version stands out for its affordability, natural ingredients, and convenience. It’s one of their most popular functional drink offerings. The ginger shots are usually stocked in the refrigerated juice section at Trader Joe’s markets.
Potential Health Benefits
Drinking Trader Joe’s ginger shot may offer several science-backed benefits:
May Reduce Nausea
Ginger has long been used as a natural remedy for nausea and upset stomach. Studies show its active compounds like gingerol and shogaol can relax the intestines and reduce nausea symptoms. The concentrated ginger in Trader Joe’s shot may help ease nausea from motion sickness, morning sickness, chemotherapy, or other causes when sipped.
May Reduce Inflammation
Chronic inflammation is linked to many diseases. The anti-inflammatory compounds in ginger, like gingerol, may help reduce overall inflammation levels in the body when consumed regularly. The anti-inflammatory effects of ginger shots like Trader Joe’s may benefit those with inflammatory conditions like arthritis, bowel disease, or autoimmune disorders.
May Aid Digestion
Ginger has traditionally been used to support healthy digestion. Studies indicate ginger may help stimulate bile production to improve digestion, and may relax gastrointestinal muscles to ease cramps or constipation. Sipping ginger shots like Trader Joe’s may aid digestion after heavy or problematic meals.
May Boost Immunity
Ginger’s antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects may give the immune system a boost. Research indicates fresh ginger may enhance immune function by increasing white blood cell counts. The concentrated ginger in Trader Joe’s shot could support immune defense and combat infection when consumed regularly.
May Increase Circulation
Better circulation improves delivery of oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. Ginger is thought to help increase circulation by preventing fat deposits and promoting vasodilation. Trader Joe’s ginger shot may support healthy blood flow when incorporated into a balanced diet and lifestyle.
May Aid Weight Loss
Some research links ginger to potential weight loss benefits. Ginger may help increase satiety after meals, cause a mild metabolic boost, and promote the breakdown of fat. Adding ginger shots like Trader Joe’s into a diet and exercise plan may support modest fat loss over time.
However, more research is still needed to conclusively confirm ginger’s effects on immunity, circulation, weight loss, and other purported benefits.
Nutrition Facts
Here are the nutrition facts for Trader Joe’s ginger shot based on a 2-ounce (60ml) serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 60 |
| Total Carbohydrates | 14 g |
| Sugars | 12 g |
| Protein | 1 g |
| Vitamin C | 15% DV |
| Potassium | 5% DV |
The beverage is low in calories and rich in vitamin C. It also provides a good amount of immune-boosting antioxidants from its ginger, lemon, carrot, and apple ingredients.
How to Take Trader Joe’s Ginger Shot
Trader Joe’s recommends drinking their ginger shot straight up. Shake the bottle well before opening. You can sip it slowly or take it all at once as a quick shot. Make sure to refrigerate after opening.
To mellow out the intensity, try diluting a shot in 8-12 ounces of water or green tea. For an antioxidant-packed twist, mix the ginger shot into a smoothie with fruit, veggies, and ice.
Most experts recommend limiting consumption to 1-2 ounces of ginger shots per day. They suggest avoiding them at night since ginger’s stimulating effects can disrupt sleep.
Potential Side Effects
When consumed in normal food amounts, ginger is likely safe for most people. But concentrated ginger shots may cause negative reactions in some individuals, especially at excessive doses. Possible side effects can include:
- Heartburn, nausea, or stomach upset
- Mouth or throat irritation
- Diarrhea or intestinal discomfort
- Lightheadedness or dizziness
Ginger shots may also interact with certain medications like blood thinners. Speak with your healthcare provider before trying ginger shots if you take any medications or have a medical condition.
Cost and Availability
Trader Joe’s ginger shots are one of the most budget-friendly options on the market. A 2-ounce bottle typically costs around $2.49 – $2.99. The shots are sold individually or in packs.
They are available exclusively at Trader Joe’s markets nationwide. You can find the ginger shots year-round in the refrigerated juice section. Trader Joe’s often limits purchase quantities to around 5-6 bottles per customer due to their popularity.
Alternatives to Consider
While Trader Joe’s version is convenient and affordable, you can also make your own ginger shots at home. This gives you more control over ingredients and allows you to customize the intensity. To craft a homemade ginger shot, simply blend fresh ginger with lemon, carrots, apples, and water in a high-speed blender. Strain the pulp and pour into a glass bottle to store.
Other ready-made ginger shot options include brands like GT’s Living Foods, Humm, Pukka, and Remedy. However, these tend to be more expensive than Trader Joe’s.
The Bottom Line
With its convenience, cost, and said benefits, it’s easy to see why Trader Joe’s ginger shot is so popular. Science indicates the concentrated ginger and other ingredients may help reduce nausea, inflammation, and oxidative stress, as well as support digestion, immunity, circulation, and more.
Drinking 1-2 ounces per day may provide health advantages for some people when combined with an overall healthy lifestyle. But excessive consumption on an empty stomach may cause adverse side effects. Speak with your doctor before adding ginger shots to your routine if you take medications or have health conditions.
While more research is needed on ginger shots’ effects, Trader Joe’s affordable option is worth a try if you’re interested in reaping ginger’s potential benefits. Just listen to your body’s response and adjust your dosage as needed. In moderation, ginger shots like Trader Joe’s can be a tasty addition to an overall balanced diet and healthy routine.
