The custom of reaching for ginger ale when feeling unwell, particularly for stomach upset, is a deeply ingrained cultural tradition. This carbonated drink is often seen as a gentle, soothing remedy for nausea and indigestion. The widespread belief in ginger ale’s restorative power leads many to trust it as the first line of defense against an unsettled stomach. The question is whether this popular remedy is truly effective or if the perceived benefit is due to other factors.
The Difference Between Remedy and Retail Soda
The historical use of ginger for digestive complaints dates back centuries, utilizing the actual rhizome of the plant. Traditional preparations involved steeping or boiling fresh ginger root to create a potent, spicy infusion. This traditional remedy is a significant departure from the beverage found in most modern supermarkets.
Most major commercial ginger ale brands contain remarkably little, if any, of the active compounds found in real ginger root. These drinks typically rely on artificial or “natural” flavorings to mimic the ginger taste. Some popular brands may contain a negligible amount, often less than 0.5%, of actual ginger extract. This minimal concentration means the medicinal compounds responsible for ginger’s reputation are largely absent from the final product.
The primary ingredients in retail ginger ale are carbonated water, high-fructose corn syrup or sugar, and flavorings. Therefore, the commercial product is functionally a soft drink with a ginger flavor profile. While some specialty ginger ales contain higher concentrations of real ginger, the widely available mass-market sodas do not contain a therapeutic amount.
The Role of Hydration and Simple Sugars
Despite the lack of significant ginger content, commercial ginger ale can still offer mild relief during illness, primarily because of its non-ginger components. When a person is experiencing vomiting or diarrhea, the immediate danger is dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. The fluid content of ginger ale helps to counter this fluid loss, which is necessary for recovery.
The simple sugars, such as sucrose or high-fructose corn syrup, in the soda play a role when appetite is poor. These simple carbohydrates are absorbed, providing a quick source of glucose. This easily digestible energy can help prevent low blood sugar, which is a concern when a person cannot tolerate solid food.
The carbonation in the beverage may also contribute to the perception of relief. The mild burping that follows drinking a carbonated beverage may help relieve feelings of bloating or pressure in the stomach. While the sugar content is beneficial for a quick energy source, excessive sugar intake can sometimes worsen diarrhea by drawing water into the intestines.
How Real Ginger Soothes the Stomach
The true scientific benefits associated with ginger for digestive issues are linked directly to the root’s active chemical constituents. The two primary groups of compounds are gingerols, found predominantly in fresh ginger, and shogaols, formed when ginger is dried or cooked. These compounds are responsible for the pungent, spicy flavor and medicinal actions.
These bioactive substances interact with the body’s digestive and nervous systems. Specifically, they bind to and antagonize 5-HT3 receptors, a type of serotonin receptor located in the gut lining. When stimulated by irritants, these receptors send signals to the brain that trigger nausea and vomiting.
By blocking these serotonin receptors, gingerols and shogaols interrupt the signal pathway that leads to nausea. Ginger compounds also increase gastrointestinal motility, speeding up the movement of stomach contents into the small intestine. This accelerated gastric emptying reduces pressure and discomfort, helping to settle an upset digestive system. These effects require a concentration of ginger compounds significantly higher than what is typically found in retail ginger ale.