Fresh ginger root containing Lactobacillus bacteria and wild yeast can be used to prepare ginger bugs. Ginger ale does not contain caffeine and can be an ideal beverage for anyone who cannot consume caffeine. Commercial ginger ales contain carbonated water, sugar or high-fructose corn syrup, and an artificial or natural ginger flavor. Alkaline compounds like sodium bicarbonate are also used to neutralize acidity. Ginger ale may also contain preservatives like citric acid, sodium benzoate, and some coloring agents. Ginger ale is available in different types. We will explore them in the next section.
Types Of Ginger Ale
Regular: This refers to both the ginger ale soda and the traditional fermented ginger ale. Dry: Dry ginger ale has a spicier or drier ginger flavor due to the way the ginger root is sourced and processed. Diet: This version contains no sugars or high fructose corn syrup. It instead contains artificial sweeteners.
How is ginger ale different from ginger? Let us understand.
Ginger Vs. Ginger Ale
Ginger has been widely used as a culinary and medicinal ingredient while ginger ale is only used as a soda or soft drink. We have listed the nutritional differences between the two (per 100 grams):
- All the listed values of ginger and ginger ale are sourced from USDA. Ginger ale is made of ginger root and other components. While there is no direct research on the health benefits of ginger ale, the ginger it contains may offer certain advantages. Let us explore them in the next section.
Potential Health Benefits Of Ginger Ale
1. May Help Treat Nausea
Nausea is typically characterized by an uncomfortable sensation occurring in the throat and epigastrium (upper abdomen) that may lead to vomiting. Some studies suggest that ginger consumption may reduce nausea associated with stomach flu, migraine headaches, chemotherapy, and morning sickness. This effect could be attributed to the gingerols and shogaols in ginger. The gingerols in fresh and dried ginger rhizomes are the main compounds responsible for their pungent taste. They are known for their medicinal values.
2. May Help Treat Morning Sickness During Pregnancy
Morning sickness is the discomfort associated with pregnancy especially in the first trimester. It is characterized by vomiting, vertigo, and irritability. Research states that ginger may effectively relieve morning sickness. Note: Drink only homemade ginger ale during pregnancy. Avoid store-bought products to prevent side effects.
3. May Aid Digestion
Animal studies show that ginger can effectively stimulate the production of digestive enzymes. Ginger intake was found to enhance pancreatic lipase activity. Additionally, ginger intake could also stimulate trypsin and chymotrypsin – two enzymes that play a major role in digestion.
4. May Help Manage Migraine
Another major health benefit of the ginger in ginger ale could be associated with migraine relief. In a study, using ginger in the treatment of migraines had shown a significant beneficial effect. However, more research is warranted in this area. We have discussed the nutritional profile of ginger ale in the following section. Take a look.
5. May Help Manage Rheumatoid Arthritis
Studies have shown that ginger may effectively help in managing rheumatoid arthritis. Ginger could significantly increase the expression of FoxP3 genes and decrease the expression of RORγt and T-bet genes and help manage the condition. However, more research is needed in this aspect.
6. May Exhibit Cardioprotective Effects
Studies have also shown that ginger can effectively exhibit cardioprotective properties. The cardioprotective action of ginger is believed to be associated with its antihypertensive, anti-hyperlipidemia, and anti-platelet effects. More quality studies are needed to better understand the underlying mechanisms. While the ginger in ginger ale may offer these benefits, they may also depend on the concentration of ginger in the beverage. Hence, consult your doctor to further understand the health benefits of ginger. We have discussed the nutritional profile of ginger ale in the following section. Take a look.
Nutritional Facts Of Ginger Ale
Ginger ale (100 grams) contains:
Calories: 34 Fat: 0 g Cholesterol: 0 mg Sodium: 7 mg Potassium: 1 mg Carbohydrate: 9 g Protein: 0 g
*All values are sourced from USDA Preparing ginger ale at home is easy. Here’s how.
How To Prepare Ginger Ale At Home
What You Need
4 cups water 2 cups peeled and chopped fresh ginger 3 strips lemon peel, about 4 inches each, yellow parts only 1 ½ cups granulated sugar 3 quarts club soda, chilled
Method Here are a few other ginger ale recipes you may want to try. Diet Ginger Ale Diet ginger ale is similar to regular ginger ale, though it is free from sugar. An artificial sweetener is added in the place of sugar. What You Need
4 cups water 1 cup fresh ginger, peeled and roughly chopped 1 cup sweetener 1 lemon with grated peel
Method Dry Ginger Ale A spicier ginger flavor is imparted to dry ginger ale by using fresh ginger root. What You Need
1 cup fresh ginger peeled and chopped finely 2 cups water ½ a cup raw sugar 1 tablespoon dark brown sugar or molasses Lime wedges Soda water or sparkling mineral water Ice
Method
Ginger Ale Vs. Ginger Beer
Ginger ale and ginger beer contain ginger. These two drinks, however, do not have the same composition. When consumed in moderation, ginger ale is generally considered safe for the majority of people. However, you should also consider the following potential side effects.
Possible Side Effects Of Ginger Ale
1. May Cause Bloating And Diarrhea
Studies suggests that ingesting more than 6 grams of ginger root may cause diarrhea. Diarrhea and bloating caused due to ginger ale could be due to the carbonation more than the ginger itself. The artificial sweeteners used in diet ginger may also cause bloating.
2. May Increase Inflammation
Ginger ale may have sodium benzoate added as a food preservative to inhibit microbial growth. Studies show that such food additives may cause inflammation in some cases.
3. May Interfere With Blood Clotting
Anecdotal evidence suggests that ginger may slow down the process of blood clotting. Caution is advised if you are taking blood thinners. However, more research is warranted in this regard.
How To Choose A Healthier Ginger Ale That’s Good For You?
Ginger ale is consumed mostly to alleviate nausea and indigestion. However, it should not be consumed in large quantities. Health benefits can be derived from moderate consumption. Drinking ginger ale made from fresh ginger root has health benefits. Manufacturers label their products with the ingredients used – check it before making a purchase. Avoid ginger ale containing flavorings or colorings agents or high sugar/high fructose corn syrup. The healthiest choice is homemade ginger ale. Is ginger ale good for your stomach? Ginger contains a variety of phytochemicals, and it can alleviate nausea and vomiting (9). Why does ginger ale make you feel better? Ginger ale contains more ginger and cane sugar. It is effective in providing relief to your upset stomach and also helps relieve cold and flu. These properties help make you feel better. Which ginger ale has real ginger in it? Canada Dry ginger ale has real ginger extracts in it.
