Newsletter Number 4 – May 2017

Nausea is one of the most common symptoms during chemotherapy. This side effect should not be underestimated as it can result in a reduction in appetite and weight-loss if not properly managed.
This issue has been extensively dealt with in the site. You will find general nutritional indications to alleviate the symptom.
A correct food supply is a key strategy to reduce the perception of nausea.

In this newsletter we talk about Ginger.

Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) is a perennial herbaceous plant, belonging to the family of Zingiberacee. In the kitchen it is often used as a spice thanks to its characteristic scent and pungent flavor but at the same time, it is delicate.

It is rich in mineral salts (calcium, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, magnesium, selenium), vitamins (B3, B5, B6, C, E) and bioactive compounds. The latter gives it its characteristic flavor, and is divided into volatile compounds such as hydrocarbons and non-volatile e.g. gingerol, shogaol and zingerone.  Bioactive compounds vary widely in relation to the type of root variety and where it is grown (1).

Ginger, originally from East Asia, has been used since ancient times both in the culinary field and in traditional Eastern medicine. In recent years there has been a lot of talk about this root. Even in the West it is increasingly appreciated not only for its flavor and versatility in the kitchen, but also for its properties.

In the culinary field it is used in meat, fish and vegetable dishes, but also in sweets or drinks e.g. teas, herbal teas and infusions. Different preparations can be obtained from the rhizome: oil, extract, tea, syrup, preserves, candied, capsules, liqueurs and much more.

Ginger is said to have numerous properties which have been confirmed with scientific studies e.g. antioxidant, hypocholesterolemizing, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory and antiviral (2,3).

Rhizome is known for its ability to fight nausea. In ancient times Chinese sailors used this precious root as a remedy against sea sickness.

Ginger consumption is recommended for pregnant women who suffer from nausea, especially in the first months.  Numerous scientific studies have been conducted to support its effectiveness (4,5). Given the good results obtained in fighting nausea during pregnancy, there has been a strong interest to see if the root can be a valid antiemetic even during chemotherapy treatments.

In literature there are several studies that recommend ginger intake via capsules (about 1-3 gr/day) to fight off nausea that can develop during chemotherapy.
The results are not yet totally satisfactory, and are often in contrast with each other. Some studies show a reduction in the symptom if a ginger tablet is administered (on average 1.5 grams/day) along with an antiemetic drug (6). Other studies do not appear to show statistically significant differences between those who take ginger and those who do not (7).

A very recent discovery has shown that bioactive compounds found in ginger can potentially act on nausea-inducing mechanisms (8).
While new research is underway, ginger can be a help during chemotherapy nausea. In addition to improving this unpleasant side effect, it acts positively on the whole organism as it has multiple properties.

How can we include it in our diet? The classic ginger herbal tea is a valuable help for those suffering from nausea. Another option is to consume candied ginger or dishes with the addition of spice.
However, it is important not to abuse ginger intake (dry max 2 gr per day, fresh max 10 gr per day) It is advisable to always ask your doctor before consumption.

WARNING: Given the fluidizing effect of ginger on the blood, it is always advisable to consult your doctor before using ginger in case you take anti-aggregator and anticoagulant drugs.
In addition, ginger intake is not recommended in the presence of gallstones.

1. Gingerols and shogaols: Important nutraceutical principles from ginger; Semwal RB et al (2015).
2. A Review on Pharmacological Properties of Zingerone (4-(4-Hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-2-butanone); Ahmad B et al (2015).
3. Anti-Oxidative and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Ginger in Health and Physical Activity: Review of Current Evidence; Mashhadi NS (2013).
4. Effect of ginger on relieving nausea and vomiting in pregnancy: a randomized, placebo-controlled trial; Saberi F et al (2014).
5. A systematic review and meta-analysis of the effect and safety of ginger in the treatment of pregnancy-associated nausea and vomiting; Viljoen E et al (2014).
6. Effect of Ginger on Acute and Delayed Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting; Yunes P et al (2012).
7. Efficacy of ginger for nausea and vomiting: a systematic review of randomized clinical trials; Ernst E et al (2000).
8. Ginger – mechanism of action in chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting: a review;  Marx W et al (2017).