The guys over at elite seem to be enamored with ginger root. While I must admit I didn’t thoroughly examine their claims, I did notice they suggested it would assist absorption of protein. Anyone know anything (other than that they’re hyping something else from AF)?
I don’t know the specifics of the protein absorbtion, but I know from first hand knowledge that it is generally good for the digestion system overall.
I have no idea about the effect on protien digestion. But I use small diced candied ginger to add zing to my trail mix.
Doug, or anyone else for that matter, any thoughts?
While it is impossible to say if absorbtion is improved without blood testing, I can say with certainty that a couple grams of ginger before a big protein meal/shake significantly reduces gas. This is a very good thing, especially if you have a social life.
This would point to better digestion, which should yield more absorbtion.
I tried this once before and it seemed to work. I didn’t continue, however and one night in July this past summer, I lost two friends over the course of one evening with one single fart in car. It’s not worth it. Eat your ginger, take some beano, anything you can think of. It’s not worth losing friends over, but really, if your so-called friends can’t withstand a little flatulence, what kind of friends are they? Not friends of mine anymore, that’s for sure 
It will definately relieve you of that “pregnant belly” feeling after consuming a lot of protein.
In what form is it most efffective?
Hi, C19 H28 O2. Ginger is included in both Eastern and Western herbal formulas. It also stands well alone. An English study determined that ginger root contains a proteolytic enzyme, zingibain, that is more effective than papain (derived from papaya). It has also been found to be more effective than Dramamine in preventing motion sickness. It’s also been clinically proven to significantly decrease nausea and diarrhea associated with the common three-day or 24-hour type flus. Women use it quite effectively with first tri-mester nausea.
So the bottom line is, yes, ginger is effective with nausea and as a digestive aid. It’s also used to enhance circulation, in cases of nervous tension and fatigue. It won’t matter what form you use, fresh, dried, capsules, as a tea with a little honey.
Thank you all for the input.
Be gone damned bold!
when you referred to ‘dried’ ginger do you mean like the spices in the bottles you get at the grocery store. Would those work as well?
Hi, Mayfield. The spice you buy in the grocery store for cooking and flavor is the same as what you might find in a health food store. So, yes, you could use it in that way. Ginger, however, is a very spicy, hot herb. In fact, if you make a tea out of ginger, it will make you sweat. At higher dosages, you’ll definitely like it better in capsule form.
Experiment with the dosage. Ginger is commonly consumed in India in the 8-10g per day range. Start with a gram or two with protein containing meals and go up from there as it suits your needs. No worry about overdosing. It’s actually just food.
It’s also interesting to note that ginger, like Omega 3s and fish oil, has potent antiinflammatory properties, along with being an excellent antioxidant. What’s not to love?