I love ginger – and not just for the way it adds flavour to stir-fries and transforms my routine green smoothie into something special – but because of its formidable health benefits. It’s well-known for its anti-bloating and digestive boosting qualities, but here are a few more reasons why I include it several times a day:

1. Ginger is a potent anti-inflammatory. And since inflammation is the root cause of everything from acne to cancer, I consider it prevention.
2. Ginger improves the absorption and assimilation of essential nutrients in the body. It’s like super-charging your smoothies and veggies.
3. Ginger helps clear the “microcirculatory channels in the body, including those annoying sinuses that tend to bother everyone (including me) during allergy season.
4. Regular exercise is important, but it can bring aches and pains. When I’ve overdone it and for the occasional headache, ginger tea, with its natural anti-inflammatory properties, can bring relief.
5. Ginger is a potent anti-oxidant too. That means it helps protect my body and skin from the damaging effects of free radicals. It’s anti-aging!

• Ways to Use Ginger

1. Ginger & Herb Rice: Cook basmati rice. When you take the lid off the pan, quickly stir in finely chopped garlic, ginger, green chilies and fresh coriander leaves
2. Ginger in Your Juice: Grate some ginger root and put it in your juicer, along with carrots and apples and a little lemon juice. Deliciously energizing!
3. Ginger Tea: A little grated ginger in hot water and lemon is the super simple way to get a little more ginger into your life!