Gingerol - A Cancer Fighting Antioxidant

by Tom Parker

Gingerol is a flavonol and phytonutrient (a group of chemical compounds that are found naturally in plants and have multiple health benefits but are not considered essential in humans) that can be found in fresh ginger. It has been linked with preventing cancer, strengthening the immune system and more. In this article I will be discussing gingerol in greater detail and providing you with a summary of its main functions, the best food sources, the recommended daily allowances (RDAs) and the potentially adverse effects of consuming too much or too little.

1) DISCOVERY:

The first references to gingerol date back to 4000 B.C. where it was mentioned as a cooking spice in the sacred Hindu text; "Mahabharata". It was classified as a flavonol many years later in 1938 by the Hungarian biochemist Albert Szent Gyorgyi when he discovered the flavonoids.

2) FUNCTION:

Gingerol has multiple health benefits in the human body. It acts as an anti-inflammatory (a substance that prevents inflammation within the body) and an antioxidant (a substance which protects the body's cells from damaging free radicals). In addition to this, gingerol boosts the body's immune system, protects against certain types of cancer (including breast cancer, colon cancer and ovarian cancer) and treats high blood pressure. Finally, it works to relieve migraines, nausea and the painful symptoms associated with arthritis.

3) RDA:

Gingerol is not considered essential to human health so no official recommendations have been set regarding its consumption. However, a number of sources recommend that gingerol should be avoided completely by children up to 2 years old. They also suggest that children aged between 2 and 17 years old should consume a maximum of 1.3 grams (g) per day and adults aged 18 years and older should consume no more than 4g per day.

4) FOOD SOURCES:

Gingerol is part of fresh ginger and this is the most potent source. It is often added to other foods as a cooking spice and can also be found in herbal infusions (teas) and herbal supplements.

5) OVERDOSE SYMPTOMS:

There are no reported overdose symptoms associated with consuming high levels of natural gingerol. However, excessive use of gingerol supplements can have a number of adverse effects which include confusion, dizziness, irregular heartbeats and sleepiness.

People who suffer from blood disorders, diabetes, gallbladder disorders or heart problems are more likely to experience overdose symptoms when taking gingerol supplements. People taking blood thinning medications and pregnant women are also considered to be more at risk of gingerol overdose.

6) DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS:

At the time of writing, no gingerol deficiency symptoms have been identified. Author Resource:- Tom Parker owns Free Fitness Tips - a fantastic source of free, impartial fitness advice. You can learn more about gingerol and the other flavonols by visiting his website.