Ginger is used in a variety of ways such as in ginger ale, in tea or eaten with food. Ginger has medicinal properties and has been used for thousands of years to treat indigestion, nausea and diarrhea. Apart from its use as a digestive aid, ginger is a rich source of multiple minerals and vitamins that are important for maintaining the health of men. It is beneficial in many male health problems such as prostate cancer, erectile dysfunction, colon cancer and others.
Ginger Benefits for Men
1. Treat Cancer of the Prostate
Millions of males are diagnosed with prostate cancer every year. The risk of getting prostate cancer increases with age.
According to one study, extract of whole ginger prevented prostate cancer cell growth and caused death of the existing cancer cells. It was shown in mice that consumption of 100 mg of extract of whole ginger per kg of body weight daily inhibited cancer cell progression by 56%. No toxicity or damage was caused by ginger to normal cells. Ginger may also help relieve the nausea associated with treatment of cancer and promote appetite.
2. Treat Colon Cancer
Males are affected more by colon cancer than females. A study demonstrated that gingerol, which is a phytonutrient that imparts ginger a spicy tastemay, contains chemoprotective properties when it was utilized to treat cancer of the colon. The study results were so promising that the scientists are working on creating a drug with gingerol, which can be used as an anti-cancer drug.
3. Promote Heart Health
One of the major causes of death among males is heart disease. Ginger is a rich source of many minerals and vitamins such as vitamin B6, magnesium and potassium that provide protection against cardiovascular disease. They lower the risk of cardiovascular disease by decreasing blood pressure and preventing clogging of arteries. This is among the important ginger benefits for men.
However, it is imperative to note that certain heart conditions may be worsened by high doses of ginger. Hence, if you have any heart problem, consult your physician before using ginger. If you have decided to take it, you may need to work with your physician and decide the amount that is safe for you.
4. Increase Male Fertility
Ginger is a rich source of manganese which is essential to maintain sperm count and sex drive in males by increasing the production of testosterone. According to preliminary research, ginger decreased certain issues that lead to infertility in males.
5. Improve Erectile Dysfunction
In many cultures, ginger is considered to be an aphrodisiac and there may be science behind this legend. The phytonutrient gingerol present in ginger helps in increasing the dilatation of the blood vessels, thereby improving circulation. Blood flow may also be stimulated by gingerol. The main advantage is that it is a natural remedy which males can buy without any embarrassment.
6. Help Diabetes Mellitus
This is another one of important ginger benefits for men. Approximately 20% of males above the age of 20 years are affected by diabetes. In one study, it was found that subjects who were given 1 g of ginger thrice daily for eight weeks had significantly lower levels of blood sugar in comparison to subjects who were given a placebo. The minerals manganese and magnesium found in ginger also help regulate the levels of blood sugar in males who have type 2 diabetes.
How to Take Ginger to Enjoy the Benefits
Make sure to discuss with your physician before beginning on a regimen of ginger, particularly if you have preexisting diseases (especially heart diseases) or are taking some medicines. There may be interaction between ginger and certain medicines such as drugs used to treat diabetes and blood thinners. As already described above, high doses of ginger can have adverse affect on certain heart conditions. Taking ginger in excessive amounts, instead of bringing ginger benefits for men, can result in symptoms of bloating, heartburn and an upset stomach.
No recommended daily intake (RDI) of ginger exists; however, 4 g of ginger every day in the form of food or supplements is considered as a good amount to consume. Maintaining a balance is always the key. Discuss with your healthcare provider to find the right quantity of ginger for you if you consider incorporating ginger in your daily diet.