Ginger Shot Benefits: What to Know About the Wellness Trend

Registered dietician and Hilma nutrition advisor Megan DeChatelets, MS, CDN, also notes that ginger can help with bloating, as it “can soothe digestive distress and speed up stomach emptying,” especially in the form of tea.

Otherwise, research has found that ginger has anti-inflammatory properties, may help balance blood sugar levels, and may possibly lower cholesterol. Some studies have even found that ginger may be beneficial in combatting bacterial and fungal infections and aid with chronic indigestion.

As for why it seemingly helps boost immunity? “Citrus juice, which is commonly found in ginger shots, is a great source of vitamin C, which is beneficial for your immune system due to its antioxidant properties, and metabolism of nutrients within the body,” O’Meara explains.

Its high levels of vitamin C and antioxidants are also beneficial for hair growth and skin health. “Citrus fruits, like oranges, grapefruits, and lemons, are rich in vitamin C, which supports collagen production,” says Serena Poon, nutritionist, celebrity chef, and founder of Just Add Water and Culinary Alchemy. “Collagen is an important component of the proteins that make up healthy hair, and antioxidants may help protect your hair from oxidative stress, keeping it looking young and radiant.”

How often should you take ginger shots?I personally took my ginger shots every morning, but not first thing: I always took them after eating breakfast. “I would recommend taking it with food as the spiciness and warmth from the shot can cause some heartburn in some individuals,” O’Meara agrees.

As for how often to drink ginger shots? “If you want to take a ginger shot, you can do it as often as you would like,” says O’Meara. Again, I take them everyday, but that’s up to your preference.

Do ginger shots help you lose weight?While there is technically some research claiming ginger may help with weight loss, O’Meara says that “there is a lack of research in humans to suggest that doing ginger shots will help you lose weight.”

“There may or may not be a benefit in taking ginger shots for weight loss, but what is known is that ginger shots do not overshadow following a healthful diet and active lifestyle to help with weight control,” she explains.

Lastly, it’s important to note that while ginger shots have health benefits, they are not a replacement for a balanced diet. “If someone enjoys taking a ginger shot in the morning to feel like they are getting a jump-start to their day, it can be a great option,” says O’Meara. “But to ensure you are truly jump-starting your metabolism, eating whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, as well as eating breakfast, will be what’s best.”

Can you make ginger shots at home?“You can make ginger shots at home by using a blender or you can buy them premade,” says O’Meara. “The only difference there would be is the ingredients used, and if you make them at home, you can control how much added sugar is in the product and make it to your liking.”