Key Highlights: 

• Ginger ale is a carbonated drink flavored with ginger root and often contains sugar or high-fructose corn syrup  
• Some potential health benefits of ginger, the main ingredient in ginger ale, include relief from nausea, digestive aid, migraine relief, and potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects 
• Commercial ginger ale may not provide substantial health benefits if it does not contain real ginger or has a high sugar content 
• Choosing a healthier ginger ale or making it at home may provide better benefits, but moderation is key  
• Potential side effects of ginger ale consumption includes bloating, diarrhea, increased inflammation, and interference with blood thinners  

Introduction 

For years, ginger ale has won hearts with its cool taste and unique ginger tang. It has recently come into the limelight for its potential health benefits due to its main ingredient ginger. We’ll dive into the truth behind ginger ale in this blog. We’ll talk about its pros and cons, and ways to opt for a healthier pick. 

Are you ready to explore the realm of ginger ale? If so continue to read as to how it can be safely weaved it into your diet. 

What is ginger ale? 

Think of ginger ale as a fizzy (carbonated) drink made with ginger root, sugar, and flavorings. Can be enjoyed by itself or added to mixed drinks. 

Types of ginger ale 

These are as follows: 

• Regular Ginger Ale – Contains ginger, sugar, or high-fructose corn syrup, and fizz. 
• Dry Ginger Ale – Tastes spicier or “drier,” thanks to the way the ginger root is treated. 
• Diet Ginger Ale – Sugar is replaced with zero-calorie or man-made sweeteners. 

Ginger vs. ginger ale 

Let’s get one thing clear ginger and ginger ale are not the same. While ginger is a plant from Asia known for its spice and medicinal properties, ginger ale is a sugary fizzy drink flavored with ginger roots. 

Ginger has been proposed to have health perks, like nausea relief, potential antioxidant effects, migraine relief, and lessening inflammation. But should we give these credits to ginger ale? Not if it doesn’t contain real ginger or if it is high in sugar. 

Let’s take a look at the following table which gives a nice summary of the differences between ginger and ginger ale. 

To my knowledge, ginger ale is not real ginger but a carbonated drink containing ginger extract. Therefore, it is possible that it may cause stomach irritation and indigestion if taken in excess.

Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D

Health Benefits of Ginger Ale 

The health benefits of ginger ale hinge largely on whether or not it contains real ginger. If it does, benefits may include: 

1. To reduce Nausea 

 Ginger is usually suggested when someone is dealing with nausea and vomiting. Whatever may be the cause of nausea and vomiting its use is suggested but it may help reduce the nausea more than the vomiting. The credit may be attributed to the gingerols and shogaols in ginger and its proposed ability to fasten gastric emptying. That said, keep in mind that most ginger-nausea studies used ginger extract, not ginger ale. Also, if the symptoms are not subsiding then it is always wise to contact your health care provider. 

2. As an Antioxidant  

Ginger oil is said to be naturally rich in antioxidants. These good guys shield your cells from harm that can lead to diseases. However, processing can reduce its antioxidant activity.  

3. Migraines treatment  

One study has shown some promising results. It found that ginger powder helped cut down migraine symptoms just as much as prescribed drugs. Another study also found that ginger under the tongue also had good effects on migraine relief. However, more probing is required to support the usage in migraine. 

4. Inflammation reduction 

Research has found that ginger houses compounds like zingerone. These compounds may have anti-inflammation effects on the brain and joints. 

5. Heart health 

Studies suggest that ginger may help keep high blood pressure in check which could lower the risk of heart disease and stroke. 

It is to be noted that all the studies supporting various benefits use different ginger preparations like extracts or powders and not ginger ale as such in their studies. The only way we could associate these potential benefits with ginger ale is if it has a good amount of authentic ginger in it. 

6. Caffeine-free benefit 

Ginger ale is naturally free of caffeine. So, if caffeine is not recommended for you, this might be a nice swap for caffeinated sodas or energy drinks. 

Let’s take a look at the following table, which nicely summarizes the potential health benefits of ginger and how they work. 

Studies have stated that ginger ale contains added flavours and sugars to enhance its taste. These flavours and sugars are not really good for your health. So, while using ginger ale as a home remedy, always practice moderation.

Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS

Nutritional Facts of Ginger Ale 

The nutritional facts of ginger ale are crucial when weighing its health pros and cons. As per the USDA, 100 ml of ginger ale contains: 

• Calories: 39 kcal  
• Fat: 0 g 
• Cholesterol: 0 mg 
• Sodium: 14 mg 
• Potassium: 0 mg  
• Carbohydrate: 10.14  g 
• Protein: 0 g 
• Sugar:  9.86 g 

Remember these values can be different based on the kind of ginger ale (regular, dry, or diet), the brand, and if any extra ingredients are used. 

Also Read: Is Falafel Healthy? A Nutritionist’s Research-Based Perspective

Potential Side Effects and Hazards 

Despite being a generally safe drink for most people when consumed in moderation, ginger ale may have some potential side effects and hazards, such as: 

1. Gassiness and bloating 

Drinking ginger ale might cause bloating, burping, gassiness etc. This is mostly due to the fizz and  which is common with all fizzy drinks. Diet ginger ale’s man-made sweeteners can cause bloating or diarrhea if consumed in large amounts. 

2. Health effects of added sugar 

The biggest downside of drinking ginger ale for most folks is the added sugar. Consuming too much added sugar/artificial sweeteners may bring about weight gain and chronic diseases. This includes dental cavities, heart disease, obesity, and type 2 diabetes (metabolic problem). Artificial sweeteners may cause an imbalance in gut bacteria, but studies are being done to understand this. It’s super key, therefore, to keep your sugar intake within the advised limit and pick a ginger ale that fits your diet needs and tastes. 

3. Potential interactions with blood thinners 

One review put forward that consuming a large amount of ginger over a long period may increase the risk of bleeding. That’s not ideal for people taking blood-thinning drugs. All this said, as long as it’s in moderation, ginger ale does not pose a significant risk for the average person and can fit within an overall healthy diet. 

Let’s look at the chart below which gives a snapshot of the potential side effects and their explanations. 

Comparing Ginger Ale and Ginger Beer 

While ginger ale and ginger beer both contain ginger, they have distinct compositions and characteristics. 

Similarities and differences 

• Both these beverages have ginger as the main flavor. 
• Ginger ale tends to be lighter, milder, and sweeter compared to ginger beer. 
• Ginger beer’s strong, spicy ginger taste comes from how it is traditionally brewed and fermented. This leads to more ginger content. 
• Although both drinks are fizzy, ginger ale often uses added carbonation. Ginger beer, instead, counts on natural fermentation. 
   

Health benefits and side effects 

• Both real ginger-containing ginger ale and ginger beer may offer similar health benefits. These include reducing nausea, aiding digestion, and fighting inflammation. 
• The potential side effects of ginger ale also apply to ginger beer. This refers to worries tied to sugar content, artificial sweeteners, and possible clashes with blood thinners. 
   

Here’s a quick overview of the shared and unique characteristics of ginger ale and ginger beer. 

How to Choose a Healthier Ginger Ale 

If you’re shopping for a healthier ginger ale, here’s what you need to consider: 

1. Read the ingredient list and nutrition label. Look at the ginger content, sugar levels, and other ingredients present. 

2. Go for a ginger ale that doesn’t use high fructose corn syrup as the main sweetener.  

3. Choose those without artificial colorings or added agents. 

4. Think about making ginger ale at home. You can ensure it has real ginger and keep a tight leash on the sugar content. 

Conclusion 

So, it all boils down to the fact thatGinger ale is a beloved fizzy drink, may offer some health benefits if it contains real ginger and is to be enjoyed in moderation. While store-bought ginger ales might not always pack in a solid health punch, going with a homemade version or more traditional styles with more ginger might be a better bet. Just be aware of the potential side effects and dangers of drinking too much ginger ale. And remember to appreciate this tasty drink as a part of your well-rounded diet. 

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 

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