Probably, many of you have already read articles about the numerous health benefits of ginger. But did you know that there are certain conditions wherein consumption of this highly nutritious plant should be avoided?

Though ginger possesses powerful nutrients and bioactive compounds, there are things you should know about its effects on certain medical conditions.

Ginger is famously known for its abilities to cure numerous digestive disorders. Its is rich in enzymes, which helps in digestion and decomposing of food and also in the detoxification process of the body.

But regardless of the ginger’s great content, it should not be use in the following cases:

Pregnancy

Being high in stimulants, ginger helps in digestion and support the muscle health as well. However, consumption of this during pregnancy might lead to premature contraction and labor. It must be avoided during the last trimester of pregnancy. Moreover, it also prevents the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and dietary iron.

Though ginger can make you feel better when it comes to your morning sickness, it’s best to consult your doctor before using it.

Certain Medications

You should avoid consuming ginger if you are taking diabetes or high blood pressure medication. The combination of ginger with insulin, beta-blockers, or anticoagulants can change the effects of drugs on the body. Since ginger stimulates blood thinning and lowers the blood pressure, it is said to reduce the effects of these drugs.

Blood Disorders

Because ginger stimulates blood circulation, it is beneficial in case of obesity, diabetes, peripheral artery disease or Raynaud’s disease. However, for people with hemophilia, this ability of ginger is not applicable. Their blood’s ability to clot is significantly reduced due to this condition that’s why even a small injury might be fatal. What the ginger does is that it neutralizes the effect of drugs used in case of hemophilia and this might worsen the condition which could lead to death.

Underweight

Avoid this plant as well as its supplements if you belong to the underweight group of people. This is because of the plant’s richness in fiber and its ability to increase the stomach pH levels as well as the production of digestive enzymes which all leads to the reduction of cravings for food and improved fat burning process.

This situation can result in hair loss, weight loss, poor muscles mass, and menstrual irregularities.

What Is a Good Substitute for Ginger?

There are several alternatives you can use instead of ginger if you are in any of the four risk groups and these include sweet peppers, red paprika, or cayenne pepper.

Peppers provide your body with similar effects to those of ginger according to a renowned nutritionist, Milka Raicevic. You can go with sweet peppers or if you love spicy foods, opt for red paprika. You can also make an excellent detox drink with these peppers by adding it to your favorite lemonade.