1 gram ginger capsules reduce fasting blood sugar and HbA1c in diabetes patients

Taking a 1 gram capsule of ground ginger 3 times daily for a period of 8 weeks resulted in decreased fasting blood sugar levels and improved HbA1c levels in people with type 2 diabetes.
The research was carried out by the Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences in Yazd, Iran. 88 participants with type 2 diabetes were randomly assigned to take either ground ginger capsules or a placebo pill.
The results showed that the ginger taking participants’ fasting blood glucose levels decreased by 10.5%, this is significant as the participants taking the placebo experienced an increase in fasting blood glucose levels by 21%.
The improvement in fasting blood glucose levels also contributed to a decrease in HbA1c levels. In addition, measurements of insulin resistance and insulin sensitivity were significantly better in group which benefitted from the ginger capsule.
Patients with type 2 diabetes will likely take interest in the study, particularly as ground ginger is neither difficult to get hold of, nor particularly expensive. However, it’s important to note that the trial was only run over 8 weeks and long term side effects were not investigated.
If you are considering taking ginger on a daily basis, it is advisable to check with your GP before going ahead.