When you’re feeling queasy, ginger ale can be a great remedy to ease the discomfort. But before sipping this fizzy beverage, there are some nutrition facts to consider.
Ginger root has long been believed to have numerous health benefits, such as relieving nausea, relieving migraine headaches and decreasing inflammation. However, these effects may depend on the amount and concentration of ginger root used in a product.
Ginger Ale Nutrition Facts
Sodium
Ginger ale is a fizzy soft drink that contains sodium, which may increase your risk for hypertension and kidney disease. If you are on a low-sodium diet, it would be wise to reduce or eliminate ginger ale from your intake altogether.
Commercial ginger ale is typically a soda made with carbonated water, sugar or high fructose corn syrup and either natural or artificial ginger flavoring. Preservatives like citric acid and sodium benzoate may also be included for flavor.
Dry ginger ale is a less sweet version of traditional ginger ale, featuring less sugar in its recipe. Additionally, this variety tends to have stronger flavors due to a unique processing technique used when processing the ginger root.
Though not recommended for bariatric diets, ginger can help relieve nausea associated with stomach flu and migraine headaches. Studies have suggested that the shogaols and gingerols found in ginger have anti-nausea properties.
Sugar
Ginger ale contains some sugar, but the amount varies depending on the brand. On average, most brands contain between 11 and 15 grams of sugar per cup (approximately 8 ounces) of dry ginger ale.
Ginger ale can be an effective remedy for stomach aches and flu symptoms, but it should only be consumed in moderation as too much sugar could have negative health repercussions. Furthermore, be sure to read the label and nutrition facts to determine the caloric content of your beverage.
Most ginger ales contain added sugar, but many brands now offer diet versions with reduced calories and sweetened with natural ingredients like monk fruit or stevia. These options can be a beneficial option for those wishing to reduce their sugar intake.
Carbohydrates
Most conventional carbonated ginger ales contain 25-30 grams of sugar per 12-ounce serving, while some craft ginger beers may be lower in sugar and suitable for those on low carbohydrate diets.
Modern ginger ale is typically composed of water, sugar or high fructose corn syrup, ginger flavoring, citric acid, sodium benzoate, and caramel coloring. Additionally, it may include additives to preserve it and enhance its taste.
Commonly mixed into alcoholic drinks like whiskies, bourbons and rums, this refreshing beverage can also be enjoyed on its own as a refreshing sipper.
Ginger beer is a refreshing beverage made by fermenting fresh ginger with sugar and sometimes citrus juice in water. The spicy kick comes from freshly grated ginger that has been grated into a fine pulp; it may also be combined with other flavouring materials like spices or fruit juices for extra zest and bite.
Fat
Ginger ale is a popular soft drink containing ginger, which has been found to have some health benefits. Unfortunately, it’s also high in calories so should not be consumed regularly.
A 12-ounce serving of ginger ale contains 124 calories, no fat and approximately 32 grams of sugar – an amount which may be excessively sweet for women who should limit themselves to no more than 6 teaspoons per day.
Additionally, this food is high in sodium, so if you’re on a low sodium diet it’s wise to monitor your intake.
Ginger ale is a relatively healthy choice compared to other sodas due to its lack of saturated fat, cholesterol and added sugar. Additionally, it has trace amounts of iron, calcium and zinc; however, it lacks protein, fiber or vitamins A, C and D.
Ginger Ale Recipe: Steps to make it at home
Here are the steps to make homemade ginger ale using the recipe from Abbey Brewing.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
Steps:
- In a small saucepan, heat sugar and water over medium heat, stirring until sugar is dissolved.
- Add chopped ginger and bring to a boil.
- Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
- Once cooled, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
- Add the yeast and ground ginger to the container and stir to combine.
- Cover the container with a clean cloth and let it sit at room temperature for 24-48 hours, until it becomes fizzy.
- Once the mixture is fizzy, transfer it to a bottle with a tight-fitting lid and refrigerate.
- Serve chilled and enjoy your homemade ginger ale!
Note: It is important to use a clean container and bottle to prevent contamination during the fermentation process.
The Health Benefits Of Ginger Ale
Ginger ale may offer some health benefits if it contains real ginger root. Ginger root has a long history of medicinal and health uses, especially related to the digestive system. It may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Gingerol, a natural component of ginger root, benefits gastrointestinal motility, encouraging efficient digestion, so food doesn’t linger as long in the stomach Ginger tea is a healthier alternative to ginger ale, ginger beer, and other commercial canned or bottled ginger drinks.
However, it is important to note that ginger ale still falls into the category of soft drinks or sodas, so it’s not a health food.
Many commercial ginger ale drinks use artificial ginger flavoring and contain very little ginger and a lot of added sugar. Therefore, it is best to consume ginger ale in moderation as part of an overall healthy diet.
