What does ginger shot do on an empty stomach?

Ginger shots have become a popular health drink due to their many potential benefits. Some people take ginger shots first thing in the morning on an empty stomach and report feeling energized, focused, and productive throughout the day. But what does the science say about taking ginger shots on an empty stomach? Here’s a comprehensive look at the effects of drinking ginger shots before breakfast.

How Ginger Shots Are Made

Ginger shots are made by juicing or blending fresh ginger root. The ginger is sometimes combined with other ingredients like lemon, honey, apple cider vinegar, turmeric, or cayenne pepper. The finished product is a concentrated, potent ginger drink that delivers a quick burst of ginger to your system.

A typical ginger shot contains about 1-2 tablespoons of freshly grated ginger. Some store-bought ginger shots use ginger powder or extract instead of fresh ginger. The shots have a strong, spicy ginger flavor that can help wake you up first thing in the morning.

Taking Ginger on an Empty Stomach May Aid Digestion

One of the main traditional uses of ginger is to aid digestion. Ginger has natural digestive enzymes that may help break down proteins and soothe an upset stomach. Taking ginger when your stomach is empty, such as first thing in the morning, maximizes its potential to aid your digestion throughout the day.

Studies show ginger stimulates the production of saliva, bile, and gastric juices. This helps activate your gastrointestinal tract first thing in the morning to support healthy digestion.

Ginger also helps relax the muscles of your gastrointestinal tract. This eases contractions in your gut to relieve constipation, bloating, cramps, and indigestion.

Key Studies on Ginger and Digestion

Here are some of the main scientific studies showing ginger’s digestive benefits:

• A 2012 study found taking ginger capsules reduced belly pain and improved digestion in people with indigestion. The effects were comparable to taking a prescription drug for indigestion.
• A 2014 study gave people either a placebo or ginger capsules to take when they had an upset stomach. The ginger significantly reduced symptoms of nausea and belly pain.
• A 2016 study in rats with colitis found fresh ginger protected against damage to the colon by decreasing inflammation and restoring normal function of digestive enzymes.

Overall, evidence suggests ginger is an effective and natural way to get your digestive system moving in the morning and prevent issues like bloating, gas, and indigestion throughout the day.

Ginger May Boost Energy Levels

Many people take ginger shots first thing in the morning for an energy boost that lasts throughout the day. But does ginger really have energizing effects?

Ginger contains compounds called gingerols and shogaols that have stimulating properties. They interact with neurotransmitter receptors in your brain to help counter fatigue and lack of energy.

Through this mechanism, ginger has been shown in studies to enhance physical and mental energy when consumed before exercise or cognitively demanding tasks.

Ginger also improves circulation by acting as a vasodilator – meaning it expands your blood vessels to increase blood flow and oxygen delivery throughout your body. Better circulation provides tissues with more energy and can make you feel more awake.

Studies on Ginger and Energy

Research demonstrating ginger’s energy-boosting effects includes:

• A 2015 study gave healthy adults either ginger supplements or a placebo before exercising in a cycling test. The ginger group had better performance and lower heart rate and oxygen consumption during the test.
• A 2012 study in rats found ginger extract reversed starvation-induced hypoglycemia, low blood sugar that can cause fatigue. The ginger raised blood glucose by stimulating the release of the hormone glucagon.
• A 2010 study found taking ginger capsules improved attention, memory, and mood compared to a placebo group. Researchers concluded ginger has psycho-stimulatory properties.

Adding some ginger to your morning routine may provide a sustained energy lift throughout the day without caffeine or other stimulants.

Ginger May Aid Weight Loss When Taken Before Meals

Some research shows ginger may aid weight loss and fat burning, especially when consumed before meals. Ginger contains compounds called gingerols that have appetite suppressing effects.

Ginger increases thermogenesis – your body’s internal heat production. This causes you to burn more calories both when you exercise and rest. Increased fat burning coupled with appetite suppression can lead to weight loss over time.

One study in overweight men found taking ginger capsules for 45 days reduced body weight and waist circumference compared to a placebo group.

Researchers noted that taking ginger before breakfast helped participants feel more satiated after meals. This resulted in consuming fewer calories throughout the day for greater weight loss benefits.

Studies on Ginger and Weight Loss

Here are some key scientific studies showing ginger’s weight loss effects:

• A 2012 meta-analysis of studies found ginger significantly lowered body weight and had anti-obesity effects. Ginger lowered LDL “bad” cholesterol levels as well.
• A 2014 study in rats fed a high-fat diet found the group receiving supplemental ginger had lower weight gain and cholesterol levels compared to rats not given ginger.
• A study in overweight men taking ginger capsules for 45 days experienced reduced appetite and greater weight loss compared to a placebo group.

Overall, ginger is a smart addition to a weight loss plan when consumed before meals. Ginger shots before breakfast can set you up for lower calorie intake and higher calorie burn throughout the day.

How Much Ginger Should You Take On An Empty Stomach?

There isn’t an established daily dosage for ginger shots first thing in the morning. Many health experts recommend starting with about 1-2 tablespoons of fresh grated ginger – equivalent to taking a 1-2 ounce ginger shot.

After a week or so, you can increase the dosage if you aren’t noticing any benefits. Up to 4 tablespoons of fresh grated ginger per day, or about 2-4 ounce of ginger juice, is considered safe for most healthy adults.

It’s best to take ginger shots on an empty stomach in the morning before eating breakfast. Or, wait at least 2-3 hours after your last meal before consuming a ginger shot drink.

Start slow with ginger shots. They have a strong spicy flavor that some people may need to get used to. You can dilute the shots with a bit of water or combine ginger with other ingredients like lemon juice to make the drink more palatable.

Considerations and Side Effects of Ginger Shots

For most healthy adults, ginger shots don’t have serious side effects when consumed in normal food amounts. But there are some considerations:

• Heartburn – Ginger may worsen heartburn in those prone to the condition. Avoid ginger if you have chronic heartburn or GERD.
• Bleeding Disorders – Ginger may increase bleeding. Stop taking it at least 2 weeks before surgery and avoid ginger if you take blood thinners.
• Diabetes – Ginger may lower blood sugar. Monitor your blood sugar closely if you have diabetes and adjust medications as needed.
• Gallstones – High doses of ginger may increase bile production. Those with a history of gallstones should exercise caution with ginger shots.

When taking ginger shots, moderation is key. Excessive amounts of ginger may cause mild side effects like heartburn, diarrhea, or mouth irritation in some individuals.

As with any supplement, it’s also a good idea to discuss ginger shots with your doctor if you take medications or have any medical conditions to ensure safety.

Conclusion

In summary, taking ginger shots first thing in the morning on an empty stomach offers several evidence-based health benefits:

• May aid digestion and prevent issues like bloating, gas, stomach pain, and indigestion
• Provides a natural energy boost without caffeine or other stimulants
• Helps suppress appetite and enhances thermogenesis for potential weight loss

Ginger shots are a safe, natural way to start your day feeling energized and comfortable. They optimize your digestion and metabolism to keep your body running efficiently until your first meal. For most people, taking 1-2 ounces of fresh ginger juice every morning is a healthy daily habit that provides sustained wellness advantages.

However, excessive ginger consumption on an empty stomach may cause side effects in some individuals. It’s best to start with small amounts of ginger shots first thing in the morning and be cautious if you have any medical conditions or take certain medications.