Ginger and Apple Health Shot
Health shots are something I have recently discovered and I would say they are more of a lifestyle change than a ‘diet’ tip. Firstly, I just want to say ginger is amazing which is why it is my health shot of choice. A health shot is a daily dose of intense nutrition and they come in different varieties. They are simple to make (if you have a juicer) and the recipe for this particular favourite of mine is below. As with any shot it is best to drink it in one go. You won’t want to sip this one 😉 and because it is very spicy I like to have a slice of apple ready on the side to immediately eat after. I like to have my shot in the morning as it really awakens your senses.
So, why ginger? Ginger is everyones favourite as it is all the ‘antis’: antiviral, antiseptic, antihistamine, anti-inflammatory and a great natural antibiotic. It is also what you need to be getting inside you suffer with colds, sinus congestion or hay fever.
Ginger can also help to reduce nausea, and so can be beneficial if you are undergoing chemotherapy, need to relieve the feelings of sickness associated with travel or in the early stages or pregnancy. Ginger is also renowned for helping to soothe the stomach.
Ginger, as I have already mentioned is an anti-inflammatory food. This means it can help if you suffer from rheumatoid arthritis or if you need to ease muscle pain after strenuous activity and exercise. The reason it is such a powerful anti-inflamatory is because it contains compounds or essential oils called gingerols that help to interrupt the inflammation process.
Ginger is a great circulation stimulant due to the compound gingerols, which cause a rapid and noticeable widening of the blood vessel walls and in turn helps to enhance circulation and also lower blood pressure. Enhanced circulation of course means that the body can transport oxygen, nutrients and white blood cells to the site of infection more efficiently as well as enhance the removal of waste. It is also beneficial for circulatory conditions such as Reynaud’s.
So, what are you waiting for…with all these health benefits surely you want to give this shot a try?
To make simply juice:
- 2 good chunks of ginger
- 1/2 apple (with a little slice of this space for a chaser)
Pour into a little glass and knock it back. Best for the morning to get all your systems really fired up for the day.
Optional additions:
- Good quality honey
- Cayenne pepper
- Turmeric
- Lemon
As you get more into it try different combinations and if you’re really brave try committing the apple from my recipe above and go for straight up ginger.