I’ll try anything that promises to improve my morning routine and boost my health; whether it’s an ice bath or meditation, some health crazes have admittedly lasted longer than others.
But one habit I will definitely be sticking to this year? Daily ginger shots.
Hailed as a 'natural immune booster' online, it’s not an understatement to say ginger shots have conquered the wellness industry over the last couple of years.
Try for yourself
On TikTok, people are sharing their own winter recipes with many crediting ginger for helping to prevent colds, settle the stomach, and even reduce sugar cravings.
So, when I heard the hype around Plenish Ginger Shots, I decided to see if they really could help me to feel good this winter (without having to faff around with a blender).
But after trialling the product for a month, something unexpected happened. Here’s my honest review.
What are the health benefits of ginger shots?
Ginger is a natural spice famed for its fiery flavour and is often found in the kitchen cupboard, ready to be added to everything from stir fries and curries to broths.
But over the years, ginger shots have slowly gained traction for their rumoured health benefits.
Although the morning tipple won’t directly prevent colds, ginger can allegedly help to support your immune system. And if you do feel under the weather, the morning shot could reduce the duration and severity of the illness.
What's more, some people credit ginger for stabilising blood sugar levels, reducing nausea, and even aiding digestion.
So, did the ginger shots really work?
Plenish Ginger Immunity Shots are made from pressed ginger, apple, lemon, and apple cider vinegar.
According to the website, each 60ml shot provides 100 percent of your daily vitamin C, which will help to 'support your immune system by strengthening your body's natural defences'.
As you can imagine from its zesty ingredients, the health drink certainly packs a punch, and I'm a huge fan of its bold flavour.
Placebo effect or not, I did feel more energised after having the shot (but never enough to ever give up my morning coffee).
Over time, it has found a welcome place in my routine, and is a more exciting way to stay hydrated first thing.
During the one-month trial, I didn't come down with a cold or the dreaded flu once, and continued to live a balanced lifestyle.
But something unexpected did happen.
Something unexpected happened
Ginger has a rep for allegedly preventing colds and keeping your immune system in tip-top shape, but I experienced a lesser-known benefit.
For years, I have dealt with period symptoms, from headaches and bloating to mood changes and sugar cravings.
But after taking ginger shots every morning, I discovered that I was less bloated during the time of the month, and cramps weren't as severe.
I'm by no means claiming ginger shots are a miracle cure and understand it could have been down to placebo effect, but the results are compelling.
“Ginger can be helpful for some people when it comes to period pain (dysmenorrhoea) and bloating, especially in the early stages of menstruation,” Dr Semiya Aziz, Natural Cycles Medical Expert and Women’s Health GP, explains.
“During your period, the body releases prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that control many bodily functions, including triggering uterine contractions and pain,” Dr Aziz continues. “The active compounds found in ginger appear to reduce prostaglandin activity, which is why some people notice an improvement in cramping.”
A 2021 study found ginger to have ‘outweighing benefits’ in comparison to conventional remedies. According to the research, the anti-inflammatory ingredient can ‘minimise menstrual cramps’ and ‘relax muscular spasms’ for some people who menstruate.
Try Plenish Ginger Immunity shots now
According to Dr Aziz, ginger can also be used to reduce painful bloating caused by hormonal changes around your period, which can slow down digestion.
"Ginger helps to stimulate the digestive system by easing the movement of food more efficiently along the gastrointestinal tract and also reduces gut inflammation, which can relieve that heavy, bloated feeling,” Dr Aziz adds.
Although it might work to reduce symptoms for some women, it’s important to manage expectations.
“While ginger is generally safe to use in moderate amounts and can be a useful adjunct to a healthy routine, it isn’t a cure-all,” Dr Aziz warns. “In fact, excessive amounts can lead to unwanted gastrointestinal effects.”
“It’s important that anyone experiencing severe or ongoing period pain should seek the advice of a healthcare professional to rule out other underlying conditions.”
Where to buy Plenish ginger shots
If you're keen to try the benefits for yourself, you can purchase Plenish Ginger Shots via the website here.
A pack of four multi-serve bottles are made with apple, ginger and lemon, and each serving provides of your recommended vitamin C intake.
If you needed any further convincing, the popular health drink has received rave reviews online, too.
"I have been taking this for a few months now along with the turmeric shot and I feel it has prevented me from getting the horrible cold bug as heavily as the rest of my family and friends," one customer shared.
"I'm not saying it's a miracle cure but it's definitely a positive for your daily diet."
Another wrote, "The ginger shots are packed with ginger flavour and zingy, which is great first thing in the morning. I'm looking forward to seeing how these shots help with my immunity. I'm switching from a lifetime of vitamin C supplements."
"Great shots. Feel energised and great for digestion," a third wrote.
Visit the Plenish website to find out more.
Featured Image Credit: LADbible GroupTopics: Health, Food and Drink
Danielle Fowler