Cholesterol is a fat-like substance found in all cells of the body. The liver produces it, but the body also obtains it from the intake of some foods. Although it is key for the development of some functions, having too much in the blood increases the risk of developing heart disease.
“Elevated LDL levels cause plaque (fatty deposits) to build up in the blood vessels. This can cause a heart attack, a stroke or other health problems”, the aforementioned source specifies and points out that, on the contrary, having high HDL helps to reduce the risk of facing health problems. This is because the latter transports cholesterol and plaque accumulated in the arteries to the liver, so that it can be removed from the body.
Unhealthy cholesterol levels are often caused by poor lifestyle habits, combined with genes passed down from parents. For this reason, reducing the amount of this substance in the blood implies modifying the diet, which should be rich in fruits and vegetables, as well as whole grains and lean proteins, and combining it with physical activity.
To this can be added the intake of home remedies that offer properties to help lower them. One of them is ginger. Scientific evidence attributes to this root at least 21 antioxidants that would help prevent lipid peroxidation that forms in the arteries.
A magazine publication better with health, written by Valeria Sabater, indicates that this plant is effective in helping to prevent cell damage caused by both cholesterol and triglycerides, and helps to stop the accumulation of plaque on the walls of blood vessels. This results in better blood circulation throughout the coronary system.
The portal Medical News Today cites a study carried out in 2018, which included the participation of 60 people with hyperlipidemia (excess fat in the blood), 30 of whom received five grams of ginger powder each day and reduced LDL (bad) cholesterol levels in 17.4% over a three-month period.
Take care of the arteries
In addition, ginger has relaxing, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, vasodilator and anticoagulant properties, which improve the elasticity and relaxation of the arteries, which facilitates circulation and helps balance high blood pressure, says the health and well-being portal Tua Saúde. . Given the above, this root is key to preventing cardiovascular diseases.
Other benefits
On the other hand, scientific analyzes in animals have determined that ginger would also help to take care of brain health, thanks to its large amount of antioxidants. “Oxidative stress and chronic inflammation can accelerate the aging process. They are considered to be among the main drivers of Alzheimer’s disease and age-related cognitive decline.
The cited source says that studies suggest that the antioxidants and bioactive compounds in ginger may inhibit inflammatory responses that occur in the brain.
Ginger also contains antiemetic properties, which accelerate stomach emptying, improving nausea and vomiting that may arise during pregnancy or chemotherapy treatments.
Finally, in addition to its antioxidant properties, it is said that this plant helps fight inflammation in the stomach, and can contribute to the prevention and treatment of gastritis and ulcers, including those caused by bacteria. H. pylori, secure your health.
