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New research adds evidence to the benefits of ginger supplements for treating autoimmune diseases

Study looked at the impact of ginger supplements on people's white blood cell function.

New research has revealed a potentially important role ginger supplements can play in controlling inflammation for people living with autoimmune diseases.

The research published today in JCI Insight focused on studying the impact of ginger supplementation on a type of white blood cell called the neutrophil. The study was especially interested in neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation, also known as NETosis, and what it may mean for controlling inflammation.

The study found ginger consumption by healthy individuals makes their neutrophils more resistant to NETosis. This is important because NETs are microscopic spider web-like structures that propel inflammation and clotting, which contribute to many autoimmune diseases, including lupus, antiphospholipid syndrome and rheumatoid arthritis.

"There are a lot of diseases where neutrophils are abnormally overactive. We found that ginger can help to restrain NETosis, and this is important because it is a natural supplement that may be helpful to treat inflammation and symptoms for people with several different autoimmune diseases," said senior co-author Kristen Demoruelle, MD, PhD, associate professor of medicine at the University of Colorado School of Medicine on the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus.

In a clinical trial, the researchers found that daily intake of a ginger supplement for seven days (20 mg of gingerols/day) by healthy volunteers boosted a chemical inside the neutrophil called cAMP. These high levels of cAMP then inhibited NETosis in response to various disease-relevant stimuli.

"Our research, for the first time, provides evidence for the biological mechanism that underlies ginger's apparent anti-inflammatory properties in people," said senior co-author Jason Knight, MD, PhD, associate professor in the Division of Rheumatology at the University of Michigan.

The researchers say that many people with inflammatory conditions are likely to ask their health care providers whether natural supplements could be helpful for them or they already take supplements, like ginger, to help manage symptoms. Unfortunately, the precise impact on disease is often unknown. The researchers hope that providing more evidence about ginger's benefits, including the direct mechanism by which ginger impacts neutrophils, will encourage health care providers and patients to more strategically discuss whether taking ginger supplements as part of their treatment plan could be beneficial.

"There are not a lot of natural supplements, or prescription medications for that matter, that are known to fight overactive neutrophils. We, therefore, think ginger may have a real ability to complement treatment programs that are already underway. The goal is to be more strategic and personalized in terms of helping to relieve people's symptoms," Knight adds.

As a next step, the researchers hope to use this study to unlock funding for clinical trials of ginger in patients with autoimmune and inflammatory diseases where neutrophils are overactive, such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, antiphospholipid syndrome and even COVID-19.

  • Immune System
  • Joint Health
  • Veterinary Medicine
  • Pests and Parasites
  • Vaccination
  • Inflammation
  • Microorganism
  • Biological pest control

Story Source:

Materials provided by University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus . Original written by Julia Milzer. Note: Content may be edited for style and length.

Journal Reference :

  • Ramadan A. Ali, Valerie C. Minarchick, Miela Zahavi, Christine E. Rysenga, Kristin A. Sturm, Claire K. Hoy, Cyrus Sarosh, Jason S. Knight, M. Kristen Demoruelle. Ginger intake suppresses neutrophil extracellular trap formation in autoimmune mice and healthy humans . JCI Insight , 2023; 8 (18) DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.172011

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Strange & offbeat.

Ginger and Heart Health: From Mechanisms to Therapeutics

Affiliations.

  • 1 Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah,Iran.
  • 2 Research Institute of Biotechnology & Medical Converged Science, Dongguk University-Seoul, Goyangsi,Korea.
  • 3 Department of Biotechnology, College of Engineering and Technology, BPUT, Bhubaneswar 751003, Odisha,India.
  • 4 Student Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah,Iran.
  • 5 Medical Technology Research Center, Health Technology Institute, Kermanshah University of medical Sciences, Kermanshah,Iran.
  • PMID: 33297926
  • DOI: 10.2174/1874467213666201209105005

Background: As a major cause of morbidity and mortality, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are globally increasing. In spite of recent development in the management of cardiovascular complications, CVDs have remained a medical challenge. Numerous conventional drugs are used to play cardioprotective roles; however, they are associated with several side effects. Considering the rich phytochemistry and fewer side effects of herbal medicines, they have gained particular attention to develop novel herbal drugs with cardioprotective potentials. Amongst natural entities, ginger is an extensively used and well-known functional food and condiment, possessing plentiful bioactivities, like anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties in several disorders management.

Objective: The current review deliberated phytochemical properties as well as the ginger/ginger constituents' biological activities and health benefits in several diseases, with particular attention to cardiovascular complications.

Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted using multiple databases, including Scopus, PubMed, Medline, Web of Science, national database (Irandoc and SID), and related articles in terms of the health benefits and cardioprotective effects of ginger/ginger constituents. These data were collected from inception until August 2019.

Results: In recent years, several herbal medicines were used to develop new drugs with more potency and also minor side effects. Amongst natural entities, ginger is used as a traditional medicine in several diseases. The crude extract, along with related pungent active constituents, is mostly attributed to heart health. The cardioprotective effects of ginger are contributed to its cardiotonic, anti- hypertensive, anti-hyperlipidemia, and anti-platelet effects. The signaling pathways and molecular mechanisms of ginger regarding its cardioprotective effects are also clarified.

Conclusion: This study revealed the biological activities, health benefits, and cardioprotective properties of ginger/ginger constituents along with related mechanisms of action, which gave new insights to show new avenues in the treatment of CVDs.

Keywords: Ginger; biological activities; cardiovascular diseases; health benefits; hyperlipidemia; hypertension; pharmacology.; platelet aggregation.

Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at [email protected].

Publication types

  • Antihypertensive Agents
  • Antioxidants / pharmacology
  • Antioxidants / therapeutic use
  • Phytochemicals / chemistry
  • Phytochemicals / pharmacology
  • Phytochemicals / therapeutic use
  • Plant Extracts / pharmacology
  • Plant Extracts / therapeutic use
  • Zingiber officinale* / chemistry
  • Antioxidants
  • Phytochemicals
  • Plant Extracts

Here’s how you know

  • U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
  • National Institutes of Health

Music and Health: What You Need To Know

Man playing saxophone

.header_greentext{color:green!important;font-size:24px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.header_bluetext{color:blue!important;font-size:18px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.header_redtext{color:red!important;font-size:28px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.header_darkred{color:#803d2f!important;font-size:28px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.header_purpletext{color:purple!important;font-size:31px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.header_yellowtext{color:yellow!important;font-size:20px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.header_blacktext{color:black!important;font-size:22px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.header_whitetext{color:white!important;font-size:22px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.header_darkred{color:#803d2f!important;}.Green_Header{color:green!important;font-size:24px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.Blue_Header{color:blue!important;font-size:18px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.Red_Header{color:red!important;font-size:28px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.Purple_Header{color:purple!important;font-size:31px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.Yellow_Header{color:yellow!important;font-size:20px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.Black_Header{color:black!important;font-size:22px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.White_Header{color:white!important;font-size:22px!important;font-weight:500!important;} Can music be good for you?

Yes, according to a growing body of research. Listening to or making music affects the brain in ways that may help promote health and manage disease symptoms.

Performing or listening to music activates a variety of structures in the brain that are involved in thinking, sensation, movement, and emotion. These brain effects may have physical and psychological benefits. For example, music causes the release of brain chemicals (neurotransmitters and hormones) that can evoke emotional reactions, memories, and feelings and promote social bonds. Music can even affect the structure of the brain. Certain structures in the brain have been found to be larger in musicians than nonmusicians, with particularly noticeable changes in people who started their musical training at an early age.

Increasing evidence suggests that music-based interventions may be helpful for health conditions that occur during childhood, adulthood, or aging. However, because much of the research on music-based interventions is preliminary, few definite conclusions about their effects have been reached. Many reports on the potential benefits of music-based interventions come from observations of individuals or small groups of people. Evidence of this type is valuable for suggesting new ideas, but carefully designed, scientifically rigorous studies of larger numbers of people are needed to provide stronger evidence on whether music-based interventions are effective for specific purposes.

.header_greentext{color:green!important;font-size:24px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.header_bluetext{color:blue!important;font-size:18px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.header_redtext{color:red!important;font-size:28px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.header_darkred{color:#803d2f!important;font-size:28px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.header_purpletext{color:purple!important;font-size:31px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.header_yellowtext{color:yellow!important;font-size:20px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.header_blacktext{color:black!important;font-size:22px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.header_whitetext{color:white!important;font-size:22px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.header_darkred{color:#803d2f!important;}.Green_Header{color:green!important;font-size:24px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.Blue_Header{color:blue!important;font-size:18px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.Red_Header{color:red!important;font-size:28px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.Purple_Header{color:purple!important;font-size:31px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.Yellow_Header{color:yellow!important;font-size:20px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.Black_Header{color:black!important;font-size:22px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.White_Header{color:white!important;font-size:22px!important;font-weight:500!important;} What is music therapy?

Music therapy is a health profession in which music is used within a therapeutic relationship to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs. The term “music therapy” is not a description of a specific type of intervention. Instead, it indicates the education, training, and credentials of the therapist who is delivering the intervention.

Music therapy may involve a variety of different activities, including music improvisation, music listening, song writing, music performance, and learning through music. Music therapists may work in many different settings, such as hospitals, outpatient clinics, nursing homes, senior centers, rehabilitation facilities, or schools.

Some of the music-based interventions described in this fact sheet fit the definition of music therapy, but others do not. For example, music-based interventions that involve listening to recorded music are often delivered by health professionals other than music therapists (such as nurses), and therefore do not fit the definition of music therapy.

You can learn more about music therapy on the website of the American Music Therapy Association .

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In general, research studies of music-based interventions do not show any negative effects. However, listening to music at too high a volume can contribute to noise-induced hearing loss. You can find out about this type of hearing loss on the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders website .

In addition, because music can be associated with strong memories or emotional reactions, some people may be distressed by exposure to specific pieces or types of music. Extensive playing of musical instruments can lead to pain and injury. Music-based interventions that involve exercise or other types of movement could also lead to injury if appropriate safety precautions are not taken.

.header_greentext{color:green!important;font-size:24px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.header_bluetext{color:blue!important;font-size:18px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.header_redtext{color:red!important;font-size:28px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.header_darkred{color:#803d2f!important;font-size:28px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.header_purpletext{color:purple!important;font-size:31px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.header_yellowtext{color:yellow!important;font-size:20px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.header_blacktext{color:black!important;font-size:22px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.header_whitetext{color:white!important;font-size:22px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.header_darkred{color:#803d2f!important;}.Green_Header{color:green!important;font-size:24px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.Blue_Header{color:blue!important;font-size:18px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.Red_Header{color:red!important;font-size:28px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.Purple_Header{color:purple!important;font-size:31px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.Yellow_Header{color:yellow!important;font-size:20px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.Black_Header{color:black!important;font-size:22px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.White_Header{color:white!important;font-size:22px!important;font-weight:500!important;} What does research show about music-based interventions for people with health conditions?

The preliminary research that has been done so far suggests that music-based interventions may be helpful for anxiety, depressive symptoms, and pain associated with a variety of health conditions, as well as for some other symptoms associated with dementia, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and other conditions. 

.header_greentext{color:green!important;font-size:24px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.header_bluetext{color:blue!important;font-size:18px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.header_redtext{color:red!important;font-size:28px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.header_darkred{color:#803d2f!important;font-size:28px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.header_purpletext{color:purple!important;font-size:31px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.header_yellowtext{color:yellow!important;font-size:20px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.header_blacktext{color:black!important;font-size:22px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.header_whitetext{color:white!important;font-size:22px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.header_darkred{color:#803d2f!important;}.Green_Header{color:green!important;font-size:24px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.Blue_Header{color:blue!important;font-size:18px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.Red_Header{color:red!important;font-size:28px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.Purple_Header{color:purple!important;font-size:31px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.Yellow_Header{color:yellow!important;font-size:20px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.Black_Header{color:black!important;font-size:22px!important;font-weight:500!important;}.White_Header{color:white!important;font-size:22px!important;font-weight:500!important;} Pain

As mentioned in other sections of this fact sheet, there’s evidence that music-based interventions may help to relieve pain associated with specific health conditions. The two review articles listed below describe evidence indicating that music may be helpful for pain more generally. Newer research continues to find evidence that music may be helpful for pain from a variety of causes, but not every study has shown a beneficial effect. 

  • A 2016 review looked at 97 studies (9,184 participants) of music-based interventions for acute or chronic pain associated with a variety of health problems and medical procedures. The overall evidence suggested that music-based interventions may have beneficial effects on both pain intensity and emotional distress from pain and may lead to decreased use of pain-relieving medicines.
  • A 2017 review of 14 randomized trials (1,178 participants) of music-based interventions for various types of chronic pain found that the interventions reduced self-reported chronic pain and associated depressive symptoms, with a greater effect when the music was chosen by the participant rather than the researcher. The study participants had a variety of conditions that can cause chronic pain, including cancer, fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, or osteoarthritis, and most of the interventions involved listening to recorded music.
  • Many but not all newer studies of music-based interventions for pain have had promising results. For example, in recent studies, music-based interventions were helpful for pain associated with childbirth, cancer chemotherapy, a procedure in which shock waves are used to break up kidney stones, retrieval of eggs for in vitro fertilization, treatment of nose fractures, and sickle cell disease. However, music didn’t seem to be helpful for reducing moderate pain further after use of a lidocaine spray for loop electrosurgical excision (a gynecological procedure), and the results of studies on pain during cystoscopy (a procedure in which a tube is inserted into the bladder) and pain during colonoscopy were inconsistent.

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Music-based interventions have been evaluated for their effects on anxiety in a variety of disease conditions and health care settings. Some examples are given in this section, and others are discussed in the sections on specific health conditions. Most studies have had promising results, except for studies on anxiety associated with dental care.

  • A 2013 review of 26 studies (2,051 participants) showed that listening to recorded music significantly reduced anxiety in people who were waiting to have surgery. However, there was potential for bias in most of the studies because the investigators who performed the studies knew which participants had listened to music.
  • A 2016 review of 17 studies (1,381 participants) that evaluated the effect of music-based interventions on anxiety in adults with cancer suggested that the interventions may have a large anxiety-reducing effect. However, there was a high risk of bias in the studies. 
  • A 2015 review of 5 studies (290 participants) in people who were having dialysis treatments suggested that listening to music reduced anxiety. However, these studies have limitations because of their small size and high risk of bias.
  • A 2018 review concluded that it’s unclear whether listening to music is helpful for dental anxiety. Some studies have suggested that listening to music as a distraction may not be adequate to reduce anxiety in children or highly anxious adults who are having dental care. More active types of music-based interventions (for example, a music-assisted relaxation technique that’s taught to the patient in advance) might be helpful in dental settings but have not been evaluated in formal studies.  

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It’s uncertain whether music-based interventions are helpful for people with ASD.

  • A 2021 review of 22 studies (850 participants) on music therapy for children with ASD was unable to reach any definite conclusions on whether adding music therapy to their care is beneficial, although some studies had promising results. For example, some studies of educational music therapy (involving techniques such as musical games) showed possible benefits on the children’s speech, and some studies of improvisational music therapy (in which children produce music) showed possible benefits on social functioning.
  • One particularly notable study of music therapy for children with ASD (which was included in the review described above) was a multinational trial involving 364 children from 9 countries. It is the largest study completed so far, and its design was especially rigorous. In this study, the severity of symptoms related to difficulties in social communication did not differ between children who received music therapy along with standard care and those who received standard care alone.

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Preliminary evidence suggests that music-based interventions may be helpful for several types of distress in people with cancer.

  • A 2021 review of randomized controlled trials (studies in which participants were randomly assigned to a music-based intervention group or a control group), which included 81 trials and 5,576 participants, concluded that in adults with cancer, music interventions may have a large anxiety-reducing effect, a moderately strong beneficial effect on depression, a moderate pain-reducing effect, and a large effect on the quality of life. Most of the trials had a high risk of bias, so their results need to be interpreted with caution. Only seven of the studies included in this review involved children. Two of these studies suggested a beneficial effect on anxiety; no other conclusions could be reached from the small amount of evidence available.
  • A 2021 review of 11 studies (491 participants) on music interventions for children and adolescents with cancer, which included some studies that were less rigorous than a randomized controlled trial, found evidence suggesting that music-based interventions may decrease anxiety, perceived pain, and depression symptoms and improve state of mind, self-esteem, and quality of life.

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A 2021 systematic review of 12 studies (812 participants) showed that music-based interventions were helpful for shortness of breath, anxiety, and sleep quality in adults with COPD but were not helpful for depression. Because the studies were brief (several days to 12 months) and because researchers measured effects in different ways in different studies, there is some uncertainty about the conclusions.

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Much research is being done on the potential benefits of music-based interventions for people with cognitive impairment or various types of dementia, such as Alzheimer’s disease. Limited evidence suggests that music-based interventions may improve emotional well-being, behavioral challenges, and quality of life in people with these conditions. Whether the interventions have benefits for cognitive functioning is unclear; effects might depend on the population studied or the type of intervention used.

  • A 2018 review evaluated 22 studies (1,097 participants) of music-based interventions for people with dementia who were living in institutions. Some of the interventions were receptive (listening to music), some were active (singing, playing instruments, moving to music, etc.), and some were a combination of the two. The evidence from these studies indicated that music-based interventions probably reduce depressive symptoms and improve overall behavioral challenges. They may also improve emotional well-being and quality of life and reduce anxiety. However, the interventions may have little or no effect on agitation, aggression, or cognitive function.
  • A 2021 review looked at 21 studies (1,472 participants) of people with either mild cognitive impairment or mild or moderate dementia; some of the people studied were living in institutions, but others were living in the community. All the music interventions were active; studies that only involved listening to music were not included. Nine of the studies (495 participants) were included in a quantitative analysis of effects on cognitive functioning; this analysis indicated that the music-based interventions had a small beneficial effect. There was also some evidence for beneficial effects on mood and quality of life.

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A 2017 review looked at 9 studies (421 participants) of music-based interventions in adults or adolescents with depression. There was moderate-quality evidence that adding music-based interventions to usual treatment improved depression symptoms when compared with usual treatment alone. Music-based interventions also helped decrease anxiety levels and improve functioning of people with depression (for example, their ability to maintain involvement in work, activities, and relationships).

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A 2020 systematic review of 7 studies (334 participants) found evidence that music-based interventions were beneficial for pain, depression, and quality of life in people with fibromyalgia. However, the amount of research was limited, and the quality of the research was low.

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A 2021 review of music-based interventions for people with multiple sclerosis (10 trials, 429 participants) found consistent evidence that the interventions were beneficial for coordination, balance, some aspects of gait and walking, emotional status, and pain, but no effect was observed for mental fatigability or memory.

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Researchers are evaluating the potential benefits of several types of music-based interventions for Parkinson’s disease symptoms. 

  • Rhythmic auditory stimulation.  Rhythmic auditory stimulation uses pulsed sounds (such as those produced by a metronome) to help people synchronize their movements to the rhythm of the sounds. This technique is used to help people with Parkinson’s disease improve their ability to walk. A 2021 analysis of 5 studies (209 total participants) showed significant improvements in gait speed and stride length in people with Parkinson’s disease who participated in rhythmic auditory stimulation. However, the quality of evidence was low, and the number of studies and participants was small.
  • Music-based movement therapy.  Music-based movement therapy combines physical activities such as dance or rhythmic exercises with music. Therapies that involve physical activity have been shown to be helpful for a variety of Parkinson’s disease symptoms. Adding music to the therapy might have additional benefits by providing auditory cues for movement and making the activities more enjoyable. A 2021 analysis of 17 studies (598 participants) of music-based movement therapy showed evidence of improvements in motor function, balance, freezing of gait, walking speed, and mental health but not gait cadence, stride length, or quality of life.
  • Singing. The potential benefits of singing for people with Parkinson’s disease have been studied primarily in terms of effects on speech. In a 2016 review of 7 studies (102 participants), 5 studies found some evidence of a beneficial effect on speech.

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Music-based interventions are widely used in neonatal intensive care units. However, evidence for physiological benefits for newborn infants is limited. 

  • In a 2020 review of 16 studies (826 infants), 12 of the studies found some evidence of benefits on physiological outcomes (such as heart rate or oxygen saturation), but several of the studies included only small numbers of infants, and the intervention methods used varied from one study to another. The reviewers concluded that the current data are insufficient to confirm physiological benefits. No harmful effects of music-based interventions were seen in the studies included in this review.

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Music-based interventions have been evaluated as adjunct treatments (additions to usual treatment) for people with schizophrenia. A 2020 review of 18 studies (1,212 participants) indicated that adjunct music-based interventions may improve a group of schizophrenia symptoms known as “negative symptoms,” such as reduced emotion and self-neglect, as well as depression symptoms and quality of life. However, music-based interventions did not reduce “positive symptoms,” such as hallucinations and delusions. The quality of the evidence was low.

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Listening to music may improve sleep quality in people with insomnia.

  • A 2022 review looked at 13 studies (1,007 participants) that examined the effect of listening to recorded music in people with insomnia. The studies suggested music had no effect on insomnia severity compared to no treatment or treatment as usual. Moderate-certainty evidence did suggest, however, that listening to music has a beneficial effect on subjective sleep quality. The studies also provided low-certainty evidence that listening to music might help improve the speed of falling asleep, the length of time spent sleeping, and the amount of time a person is asleep compared to the total time spent in bed.
  • It’s common for older people to have trouble sleeping. A 2021 review looked at 16 studies of music-based interventions for sleep in older adults (812 participants); 11 studies evaluated music listening, and the other 5 evaluated more complex interventions. The results were mixed, with some studies suggesting that the music interventions were helpful, while others did not.

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Music-based interventions, particularly music therapy, may be helpful for improving physical and psychological markers associated with stress, according to two related reviews.

  • In a 2020 review with 104 studies (9,617 participants), investigators looked at the effects of a variety of music-based interventions on measures associated with stress, including both physical measures (heart rate, blood pressure, and levels of stress-related hormones) and psychological measures (anxiety, nervousness, restlessness, and feelings of worry). The music-based interventions had a small-to-medium sized beneficial effect on the physical measures and a medium-to-large beneficial effect on the psychological measures. 
  • A second review looked at 47 studies (2,747 participants) of music therapy (excluding other music-based interventions) and found an overall medium-to-large beneficial effect on stress-related outcomes. The effects were greater than those seen in the larger review. The investigators who performed the review suggested that the opportunity for music therapists to tailor interventions to the needs of individual patients might account for the difference.

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Music-based interventions may be helpful in the rehabilitation of people who have had a stroke. A 2019 review of 27 studies (730 participants) found positive effects on physical status (upper-limb activity, various aspects of walking, balance), cognition (paying attention, communication), and mood. In particular, rhythmic auditory stimulation (which involves the use of a metronome combined with physical activities) had beneficial effects on gait and balance, and receptive music therapy (which involves listening to music while performing another task) was helpful for mood and some aspects of cognitive function.

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Tinnitus is the symptom that people often describe as “ringing in the ears,” although it can also sound like roaring, clicking, hissing, or buzzing. It can be caused by noise-induced hearing loss, blockage of the ear canal by earwax, ear or sinus infections, or other health conditions, or by starting or stopping various medications. Sometimes, tinnitus has no obvious cause.

  • Sound therapies. Various types of sounds, including music, have been used to try to mask tinnitus. However, according to a 2019 review of studies conducted up to that time, the effects of these sound therapies are modest; few people achieve complete remission of tinnitus from sound therapies.
  • Notched music therapy. A specific type of music therapy called “notched” music therapy has been suggested as a possible way to reduce the severity of tinnitus. Notched music therapy involves listening to music that has been modified to remove sounds close in frequency to the frequency of the tinnitus sound perceived by the patient. Two recent studies that compared notched music with conventional music did not find notched music to be more helpful in reducing the symptoms or impact of tinnitus. However, some earlier studies suggested that the loudness of tinnitus sounds could be reduced with notched music therapy.

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NIH and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, in association with the National Endowment for the Arts, are sponsoring an initiative called Sound Health to increase understanding of music’s effect on the brain and the potential clinical applications. The first Sound Health research projects began in 2019. Some projects are investigating music’s mechanism of action in the brain and how music may be applied to treat symptoms of disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, stroke, and chronic pain. Others are looking at the effects of music on children’s developing brains.

Topics of NCCIH-supported studies within the Sound Health initiative include:

  • The effects of music-based interventions on neurodevelopment and pain response in preterm infants
  • Using self-generated rhythmic cues to enhance gait in people with Parkinson’s disease
  • The impact of singing interventions on markers of cardiovascular health in older people with cardiovascular disease

In collaboration with the Foundation for the NIH and the Renée Fleming Foundation, NIH has developed a toolkit for rigorous, reproducible, well-powered music-based interventions for brain disorders of aging, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and stroke. Three workshops were held in 2021 to gather input from experts in a variety of relevant fields, and a request for information was issued to get stakeholder feedback. The toolkit , which was released in 2023, will be pilot tested in demonstration projects. NCCIH is playing a lead role in this effort.

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Nccih clearinghouse.

The NCCIH Clearinghouse provides information on NCCIH and complementary and integrative health approaches, including publications and searches of Federal databases of scientific and medical literature. The Clearinghouse does not provide medical advice, treatment recommendations, or referrals to practitioners.

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Know the Science

NCCIH and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) provide tools to help you understand the basics and terminology of scientific research so you can make well-informed decisions about your health. Know the Science features a variety of materials, including interactive modules, quizzes, and videos, as well as links to informative content from Federal resources designed to help consumers make sense of health information.

Explaining How Research Works (NIH)

Know the Science: How To Make Sense of a Scientific Journal Article

Understanding Clinical Studies (NIH)

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  • Aalbers   S, Fusar-Poli L, Freeman RE, et al.  Music therapy for depression . Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2017;(11):CD004517. Accessed at cochranelibrary.com on October 29, 2021.
  • Bieleninik Ł, Geretsegger M, Mössler K, et al.  Effects of improvisational music therapy vs enhanced standard care on symptom severity among children with autism spectrum disorder. The TIME—a randomized clinical trial . JAMA. 2017;318(6):525-535.
  • Bradt J, Dileo C, Magill L, et al. Music interventions for improving psychological and physical outcomes in cancer patients . Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2016;(8):CD006911. Accessed at cochranelibrary.com on October 29, 2021.
  • Bradt J, Dileo C, Shim M. Music interventions for preoperative anxiety . Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2013;(6):CD006908. Accessed at cochranelibrary.com  on October 29, 2021.
  • Burrai F, Apuzzo L, Zanotti R. Effectiveness of rhythmic auditory stimulation on gait in Parkinson disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis . Holistic Nursing Practice. June 11, 2021. [Epub ahead of print].
  • Cheever T, Taylor A, Finkelstein R, et al. NIH/Kennedy Center workshop on music and the brain: finding harmony . Neuron. 2018;97(6):1214-1218.
  • Collins FS, Fleming R. Sound health: an NIH-Kennedy Center initiative to explore music and the mind . JAMA. 2017;317(24):2470-2471.
  • de Witte   M, da Silva Pinho A, Stams G-J, et al. Music therapy for stress reduction: a systematic review and meta-analysis . Health Psychology Review. 2022;16(1):134-159.
  • de Witte   M, Spruit A, van Hooren S, et al. Effects of music interventions on stress-related outcomes: a systematic review and two meta-analyses . Health Psychology Review. 2020;14(2):294-324.
  • Dorris   JL, Neely S, Terhorst L, et al. Effects of music participation for mild cognitive impairment and dementia: a systematic review and meta-analysis . Journal of the American Geriatrics Society.  2021;69(9):2659-2667.
  • Foroushani SM, Herman CA, Wiseman CA, et al. Evaluating physiologic outcomes of music interventions in the neonatal intensive care unit: a systematic review . Journal of Perinatology. 2020;40(12):1770-1779.
  • Garza-Villareal   EA, Pando V, Vuust P, et al. Music-induced analgesia in chronic pain conditions: a systematic review and meta-analysis . Pain Physician. 2017;20(7):597-610.
  • Jespersen KV, Pando-Naude V, Koenig J, et al. Listening to music for insomnia in adults . Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2022;(8):CD010459. Accessed at cochranelibrary.com on September 8, 2022.
  • Lee   JH. The effects of music on pain: a meta-analysis . Journal of Music Therapy. 2016;53(4):430-477.
  • van der Steen   JT, Smaling HJ, van der Wouden JC, et al. Music-based therapeutic interventions for people with dementia . Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2018;(7):CD003447. Accessed at cochranelibrary.com on October 29, 2021.

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  • Atipas   S, Therdphaothai J, Suvansit K, et al. A randomized, controlled trial of notched music therapy for tinnitus patients. Journal of International Advanced Otology. 2021;17(3):221-227.
  • Barnish J, Atkinson RA, Barran SM, et al. Potential benefit of singing for people with Parkinson’s disease: a systematic review. Journal of Parkinson’s Disease. 2016;6(3):473-484.
  • Bird HA. Overuse syndrome in musicians. Clinical Rheumatology. 2013;32(4):475-479.
  • Bradt J, Teague A. Music interventions for dental anxiety. Oral Diseases. 2018;24(3):300-306.
  • Brancatisano O, Baird A, Thompson WF. Why is music therapeutic for neurological disorders? The therapeutic music capacities model. Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews. 2020;112:600-615.
  • Buglione A, Saccone G, Mas M, et al. Effect of music on labor and delivery in nulliparous singleton pregnancies: a randomized clinical trial. Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics.  2020;310(3):693-698.
  • Burrai F, Magavern EF, Micheluzzi V, et al. Effectiveness of music to improve anxiety in hemodialysis patients. A systematic review and meta-analysis. Holistic Nursing Practice. 2020;34(6):324-333.
  • Cakmak O, Cimen S, Tarhan H, et al. Listening to music during shock wave lithotripsy decreases anxiety, pain, and dissatisfaction. A randomized controlled study. Wiener Klinische Wochenscrift.  2017;129(19-20):687-691.
  • Ç elebi D, Y ı lmaz E, Ş ahin ST, et al. The effect of music therapy during colonoscopy on pain, anxiety and patient comfort: a randomized controlled trial. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice. 2020;38:101084.
  • Chantawong N, Charoenkwan K. Effects of music listening during loop electrosurgical excision procedure on pain and anxiety: a randomized trial. Journal of Lower Genital Tract Disease. 2017;21(4):307-310.
  • Cheung CWC, Yee AWW, Chan PS, et al. The impact of music therapy on pain and stress reduction during oocyte retrieval—a randomized controlled trial. Reproductive Biomedicine Online. 2018;37(2):145-152.
  • Çift   A, Benlioğlu C. Effect of different musical types on patient’s relaxation, anxiety and pain perception during shock wave lithotripsy: a randomized controlled study. Urology Journal. 2020;17(1):19-23.
  • Gonz á lez-Mart í n-Moreno   M, Garrido-Ardila EM, Jim é nez-Palomares M, et al. Music-based interventions in paediatric and adolescents oncology patients: a systematic review. Children. 2021;8(2):73.
  • Huang J, Yuan X, Zhang N, et al. Music therapy in adults with COPD. Respiratory Care. 2021;66(3):501-509.
  • Jia   R, Liang D, Yu J, et al. The effectiveness of adjunct music therapy for patients with schizophrenia: a meta-analysis. Psychiatry Research. 2020;293:113464.
  • Ko SY, Leung DYP, Wong EML. Effects of easy listening music intervention on satisfaction, anxiety, and pain in patients undergoing colonoscopy: a pilot randomized controlled trial. Clinical Interventions in Aging. 2019;14:977-986.
  • Koelsch S. A neuroscientific perspective on music therapy. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences. 2009;1169:374-384.
  • Le Perf   G, Donguy A-L, Thebault G. Nuanced effects of music interventions on rehabilitation outcomes after stroke: a systematic review. Topics in Stroke Rehabilitation.  2019;26(6):473-484.
  • Lopes   J, Keppers II. Music-based therapy in rehabilitation of people with multiple sclerosis: a systematic review of clinical trials. Arquivos de Neuro-psiquiatria.  2021;79(6):527-535.
  • Mayer-Benarous   H, Benarous X, Vonthron F, et al. Music therapy for children with autistic spectrum disorder and/or other neurodevelopmental disorders: a systematic review. Frontiers in Psychiatry. 2021;12:643234.
  • McClintock G, Wong E, Mancuso P, et al. Music during flexible cystoscopy for pain and anxiety – a patient-blinded randomized control trial. BJU International. 2021;128 Suppl 1:27-32. 
  • Mumm J-N, Eismann L, Rodler S, et al. Listening to music during outpatient cystoscopy reduces pain and anxiety and increases satisfaction: results from a prospective randomized study. Urologia Internationalis . 2021;105(9-10):792-798. 
  • Ortega   A, Gauna F, Munoz D, et al. Music therapy for pain and anxiety management in nasal bone fracture reduction: randomized controlled clinical trial. Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery. 2019;161(4):613-619.
  • Perković R, Dević K, Hrkać A, et al. Relationship between education of pregnant women and listening to classical music with the experience of pain in childbirth and the occurrence of psychological symptoms in puerperium. Psychiatria Danubina. 2021;33(Suppl 13):260-270.
  • Petrovsky DV, Ramesh P, McPhillips MV, et al. Effects of music interventions on sleep in older adults: a systematic review. Geriatric Nursing.  2021;42(4):869-879.
  • Pienkowski M. Rationale and efficacy of sound therapies for tinnitus and hyperacusis. Neuroscience. 2019;407:120-134.
  • Piromchai   P, Chompunut S, Kasemsiri P, et al. A three-arm, single-blind, randomized controlled trial examining the effects of notched music therapy, conventional music therapy, and counseling on tinnitus. Otology & Neurotology. 2021;42(2):335-340.
  • Robb SL, Hanson-Abromeit D, May L, et al. Reporting quality of music intervention research in healthcare: a systematic review. Complementary Therapies in Medicine. 2018;38:24-41.
  • Rodgers-Melnick SN, Matthie N, Jenerette C, et al. The effects of a single electronic music improvisation session on the pain of adults with sickle cell disease: a mixed methods pilot study. Journal of Music Therapy.  2018;55(2):156-185.
  • Silverman MJ, Gooding LF, Yinger O. It’s…complicated: a theoretical model of music-induced harm. Journal of Music Therapy. 2020;57(3):251-281.
  • Speranza L, Pulcrano S, Perrone-Capano C, et al. Music affects functional brain connectivity and is effective in the treatment of neurological disorders. Reviews in the Neurosciences. March 24, 2022. [Epub ahead of print].
  • Tang   H, Chen L, Wang Y, et al. The efficacy of music therapy to relieve pain, anxiety, and promote sleep quality, in patients with small cell lung cancer receiving platinum-based chemotherapy. Supportive Care in Cancer. 2021;29(12):7299-7306.
  • Wang M, Yi G, Gao H, et al. Music-based interventions to improve fibromyalgia syndrome: a meta-analysis. Explore. 2020;16(6):357-362.
  • Wolff AL, Ling DI, Casey EK, et al. Feasibility and impact of a musculoskeletal health for musicians (MHM) program for musician students: a randomized controlled pilot study. Journal of Hand Therapy. 2021:34(2):159-165.
  • Zhou   Z, Zhou R, Wei W, et al. Effects of music-based movement therapy on motor function, balance, gait, mental health, and quality of life for patients with Parkinson’s disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Clinical Rehabilitation. 2021;35(7):937-951.

Acknowledgments

NCCIH thanks Wen Chen, Ph.D., Emmeline Edwards, Ph.D., and David Shurtleff, Ph.D., NCCIH, for their review of this fact sheet. 

This publication is not copyrighted and is in the public domain. Duplication is encouraged.

NCCIH has provided this material for your information. It is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your health care provider(s). We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with your health care provider. The mention of any product, service, or therapy is not an endorsement by NCCIH.

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Music and Health - Systematic Reviews/Reviews/Meta-analyses (PubMed®)

Music and Health - Randomized Controlled Trials (PubMed®)

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Does Green Tea Have Caffeine?

  • Caffeine in Green Tea
  • Why Amounts Vary
  • Decaffeinated Green Tea
  • Health Benefits
  • Effects of Caffeine

How Much Is Too Much?

Green tea is not naturally caffeine-free. Green tea contains an average of 29 milligrams (mg) of caffeine in an 8-ounce cup, but the amount can vary. Black tea typically has more caffeine at 47 mg per 8 ounces.

Green tea and black tea are the most common caffeinated teas. Both are produced from Camellia sinensis leaves . Black and green tea leaves differ in the degree of oxidation (a chemical reaction) they are exposed to before drying. In addition, black tea is fermented (sugar molecules are broken down through natural processes), and green tea is not.

Research supports various health benefits of green tea, including weight loss, improved cognition, and cancer prevention. 

This article covers green tea's caffeine content, decaffeinated tea, green tea's health benefits, and more. 

PeopleImages / Getty Images

How Much Caffeine Is in Green Tea?

Caffeine is the most widely consumed stimulant. It is naturally found in tea and coffee. Coffee contains up to 3 times more caffeine than green tea.

One 8-ounce cup of brewed green tea contains 20 to 44 mg of caffeine. Bagged teas often have more caffeine than loose teas, but the amount of caffeine will vary depending on the tea plant and other factors, such as growing conditions, processing, and brewing.

Caffeine is found naturally in the plants used to make coffee, tea, and chocolate. It is available in various plants and trees used to make beverages and flavorings, such as:

  • Cola acuminate, the cola tree
  • Theobroma cacao , the cacao tree
  • Paullinia cupana, the guarana plant
  • Ilex paraguariensis , the source of yerba mate

Caffeine may also be added as an ingredient to various foods and beverages. Caffeine is also available in dietary supplements. 

What Affects How Much Caffeine Is in Green Tea?

The caffeine content in green tea varies depending on the type, processing, quality, and how long you steep the tea bag or tea leaves (soak in boiling water), as follows:

  • Type : The variety of green tea can influence its caffeine content. For example, powdered matcha tea tends to have more caffeine than other types of green tea. 
  • Brewing time : The longer the tea is brewed and steeped, the more caffeine will be extracted from the tea bags or leaves.
  • Leaf age/processing : Younger, smaller tea leaves will have more caffeine than older ones. The length of processing may also influence caffeine amounts. 
  • Tea quality: Higher quality green tea brands will have more caffeine because younger, smaller tea leaves are used to make them.

Is There Decaffeinated Green Tea?

Decaffeinated green tea might be an alternative if you want to enjoy the benefits of green without caffeine. 

Most decaffeinated green tea is labeled as “naturally decaffeinated.” Decaffeinating involves removing most of the caffeine from the leaves while trying to maintain its flavor and health benefits. Decaffeination is done using a chemical process.

Even after being decaffeinated, green tea and other decaffeinated teas will still contain small amounts of caffeine. If you react strongly to caffeine , you may want to avoid decaffeinated teas altogether. 

You might consider the following alternative non-caffeinated beverages if you are trying to avoid caffeine: 

  • Herbal teas : Ginseng, ginger, rosemary, sage, etc. 
  • Plain water : Bottled or tap
  • Carbonated water
  • Milk: Dairy, soy, almond, oat, rice, etc.
  • Fruit and vegetable juices 
  • Lemonade 
  • Root beer (most brands, but check the label as some contain added caffeine)
  • Caffeine-free homemade sodas 
  • Apple cider: Cold or hot

Does Green Tea Have Health Benefits?

Green tea has been touted for its health benefits—many of which are backed by research. 

Such health benefits of green tea include :

  • Weight loss : Green tea contains a catechin (a type of plant compound) called epigallocatechin gallate , which research suggests may help reduce body weight. Catechins may promote small changes in metabolism that may aid with weight loss.
  • Cognition benefits : Green tea has ingredients that may improve brain function, cognition, and brain function. These ingredients include l-theanine and caffeine.
  • Reduced cancer risk : Some evidence suggests drinking green tea may reduce the risk for some types of cancer, including lung cancer and ovarian cancer .
  • Improved oral health : Some evidence suggests that drinking tea or using green tea extract could be linked to better oral health.
  • Heart health protection : The catechins in green tea have anti-inflammatory properties, which researchers believe target free radicals (destructive unstable molecules) while inhibiting enzymes (substances that cause certain chemical reactions) that promote oxidation and inducing antioxidant enzymes (that reduce harm from free radicals) to protect heart health.
  • Lowers cholesterol : Green tea consumption may help lower total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol ("bad cholesterol").
  • May help you live longer : Green tea may contain protective active substances that help reduce the risk of death from all causes.

How Can Caffeine Affect You?

Caffeine has a wide variety of health benefits, but it also has adverse side effects. 

Positive effects of caffeine consumption include:

  • Alertness : Caffeine can help improve alertness by blocking neurotransmitters (chemicals that communicate between nerve cells) that make you feel tired.  
  • Improved blood sugar levels : Some evidence suggests caffeine consumption may regulate sugar levels.
  • Improved metabolism : Caffeine affects how fats are generated and broken down in the body.
  • Enhanced exercise performance : Research has shown that caffeine can enhance exercise performance, especially for aerobic exercise.

Caffeine is associated with several health issues, including:

  • Sleep issues : Caffeine can block the effects of the neurotransmitter adenosine , which regulates sleep. This can affect sleep quality, especially when consumed close to bedtime.
  • Anxiety : In people sensitive to caffeine, doses of 400 mg of caffeine per day can cause nervousness and speed up heart rate. People who have an underlying anxiety or panic disorder have a higher risk of this effect from caffeine.  
  • Increased blood pressure and blood flow: Caffeine can stimulate the heart and increase blood pressure and blood flow, especially for people who do not typically consume it. It may cause palpitations (sensations that your heart is racing or pounding) or extra beats from the heart, shakiness, dizziness, nervousness, or irritability. Fortunately, most of these effects are temporary. However, if symptoms last a half hour or longer or worsen, you should seek immediate medical attention. 
  • Pregnancy troubles : Caffeine consumption in pregnancy can lead to high caffeine levels in the fetus. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends moderate levels of caffeine during pregnancy—no more than 200 mg or about 2 cups of coffee—as anything higher has been linked to the risk of miscarriage or preterm birth.
  • Digestive problems : Some people find that caffeine can lead to stomach troubles, including stomachache and diarrhea.
  • May lead to dependence : Regular intake of caffeine may lead to dependence. If you abruptly stop consuming caffeine, you may experience withdrawal symptoms , such as fatigue, irritability, and headaches. 
  • Drug interactions : Caffeine may interact with some medicines. Medications that may interact negatively with caffeine include some cardiac drugs, anti-seizure medicines, levothyroxine (thyroid hormone), and blood thinners . Discuss your caffeine intake with a healthcare provider when being prescribed medications.

A daily intake of 400 mg of caffeine or less is usually considered safe for most healthy adults. That is equal to about 14 cups of green tea. The limits for teens and children are much longer at 100 and 2.5 mg, respectively.

Caffeine toxicity can occur if someone consumes 1 gram (g), equal to 1,000 milligrams, or more of caffeine in one dose. Consuming 2 g or more at one time is believed to be dangerous and requires hospitalization. Doses of 5 g or more could be lethal.

Toxicity is rare with the consumption of caffeinated drinks. Higher levels are typically seen with caffeine supplements .

A Word From Verywell

If you're looking to cut caffeine in your diet due to preference or sensitivity, decaf might be your way to go. However, note that "decaf" doesn't mean no caffeine, just less.

Green tea is made from Camellia sinensis leaves. The amount of caffeine in green tea varies between blends and averages about 29 mg per cup. This is considered smaller than black tea and other caffeinated beverages. The caffeine content in green tea varies based on brand and type, processing quality, and steeping time. 

If you want to enjoy the benefits of green tea but want to avoid caffeine, you might consider its decaffeinated version. However, it should be noted that decaffeinated tea may still contain small amounts of caffeine. 

Scientific research supports the belief that green tea has many health benefits. These benefits include boosting alertness, improving cognition and heart health, reducing cancer risk, and promoting weight loss. 

A daily intake of 400 mg of caffeine is considered safe for most adults. The limits for children and teenagers are much lower. 

While caffeine toxicity is rare, some people should avoid caffeine. This includes people who are caffeine-sensitive, pregnant people, people with anxiety and sleep troubles, and those taking medications that may interact negatively with caffeine. 

FoodData Central. Beverages, tea, green, brewed, regular .

FoodData Central. Beverages, tea, black, brewed, prepared with tap water .

Gonçalves Bortolini D, Windson Isidoro Haminiuk C, Cristina Pedro A, de Andrade Arruda Fernandes I, Maria Maciel G. Processing, chemical signature and food industry applications of  Camellia sinensis  teas: an overview .  Food Chem X . 2021;12:100160. doi:10.1016/j.fochx.2021.100160

Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Caffeine . 

Donlao N, Ogawa Y. The influence of processing conditions on catechin, caffeine and chlorophyll contents of green tea (Camelia sinensis) leaves and infusions . LWT . 2019;116:108567.doi:10.1016/j.lwt.2019.108567

Food and Drug Administration. Spilling the beans: How much caffeine is too much?

Rodak K, Kokot I, Kratz EM. Caffeine as a factor influencing the functioning of the human body-friend or foe? Nutrients . 2021;13(9):3088. doi:10.3390/nu13093088

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Lipton. Signature blend green tea 40 tea bags .

Serdar G, Demir E, Sökmen M . Sequential green extraction of caffeine and catechins from green tea . Int. J. Second. Metab . 2019;6(3):283-291. doi:10.21448/ijsm.629151

Ohishi T, Fukutomi R, Shoji Y, Goto S, Isemura M. The beneficial effects of principal polyphenols from green tea, coffee, wine, and curry on obesity .  Molecules . 2021;26(2):453. doi:10.3390/molecules26020453

Mancini E, Beglinger C, Drewe J, Zanchi D, Lang UE, Borgwardt S. Green tea effects on cognition, mood and human brain function: a systematic review .  Phytomedicine . 2017;34:26-37. doi:10.1016/j.phymed.2017.07.008

Abe SK, Inoue M. Green tea and cancer and cardiometabolic diseases: a review of the current epidemiological evidence.   Eur J Clin Nutr . 2021;75(6):865-876. doi:10.1038/s41430-020-00710-7

Vyas T, Nagi R, Bhatia A, Bains SK. Therapeutic effects of green tea as an antioxidant on oral health- a review .  J Family Med Prim Care . 2021;10(11):3998-4001. doi:10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_943_21

Zamani M, Kelishadi MR, Ashtary-Larky D, et al. The effects of green tea supplementation on cardiovascular risk factors: A systematic review and meta-analysis .  Front Nutr . 2023;9:1084455. doi:10.3389/fnut.2022.1084455

Abe SK, Saito E, Sawada N, et al. Green tea consumption and mortality in Japanese men and women: a pooled analysis of eight population-based cohort studies in Japan .  Eur J Epidemiol . 2019;34(10):917-926. doi:10.1007/s10654-019-00545-y

Farias-Pereira R, Park CS, Park Y.  Mechanisms of action of coffee bioactive components on lipid metabolism .  Food Sci Biotechnol . 2019;28(5):1287-1296. doi:10.1007/s10068-019-00662-0

Guest NS, VanDusseldorp TA, Nelson MT, et al.  International Society of Sports Nutrition position stand: caffeine and exercise performance .  J Int Soc Sports Nutr . 2021;18(1):1. doi:10.1186/s12970-020-00383-4

National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Green tea .

Reichert CF, Deboer T, Landolt HP. Adenosine, caffeine, and sleep-wake regulation: state of the science and perspectives . J Sleep Res . 2022;31(4):e13597. doi:10.1111/jsr.13597

UC Davis Health. Q&A: What effect does caffeine have on your heart ?

James JE. Maternal caffeine consumption and pregnancy outcomes: a narrative review with implications for advice to mothers and mothers-to-be .  BMJ Evid Based Med . 2021;26(3):114-115. doi:10.1136/bmjebm-2020-111432

Johns Hopkins Medicine. New insight into caffeine use disorder .

Hladun O, Papaseit E, Martín S, Barriocanal AM, Poyatos L, Farré M, Pérez-Mañá C. Interaction of energy drinks with prescription medication and drugs of abuse . Pharmaceutics . 2021;13(10):1532. doi:10.3390/pharmaceutics13101532

Lai YW, Huang SM. Tea consumption affects the absorption of levothyroxine . Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2022;13:943775. doi:10.3389/fendo.2022.943775

Zafar S, Ashraf MM, Ali A. Effect of caffeine on anti-clotting activity of warfarin in healthy male albino rabbits . Pak J Pharm Sci. 2018;31(2(Suppl.)):611-616

Temple JL, Bernard C, Lipshultz SE, Czachor JD, Westphal JA, Mestre MA. The safety of ingested caffeine: a comprehensive review.   Front Psychiatry . 2017;8:80. doi:10.3389/fpsyt.2017.00080

Willson C. The clinical toxicology of caffeine: a review and case study . Toxicol Rep . 2018;5:1140-1152. doi:10.1016/j.toxrep.2018.11.002

By Lana Barhum Barhum is a freelance medical writer with 15 years of experience with a focus on living and coping with chronic diseases.

Children and adults are gobbling supplements. Do you know the risks?

Among some population groups, it’s not unusual to down four or more vitamins or supplements every day, new research shows

research on ginger health benefits

Americans spend billions of dollars every year on dietary supplements that claim to promote almost every aspect of our health. But how much do you know about the supplements you’re taking?

A recent government study found that nearly 60 percent of adults take vitamins, minerals, fish oil, herbal capsules, melatonin, probiotics and other types of dietary supplements. While most people used just one or two supplements — multivitamins and vitamin D were the two most popular products — it was not uncommon for people to report using three, four or more supplements at a time.

Among some parts of the population, it’s not unusual to down a handful of vitamins or supplements every day. About 15 percent of adults said they used four or more dietary supplements. Among older adults, the number reporting multi-supplement use is even higher — about 25 percent of adults 60 or older use four or more. About 35 percent of children and adolescents used dietary supplements, and nearly 10 percent of children between 2 and 5 years old were given two or more dietary supplements.

Experts say that vitamin and mineral supplements are generally safe when taken in small to moderate doses, like the amounts found in a basic multivitamin. Dietary supplements can be beneficial for pregnant women and for people with nutrient deficiencies and other health conditions. A clinical trial earlier this year found that for people who are 60 and older, taking a daily multivitamin helped to slow memory loss. Other studies have found that probiotic supplements can help with gastrointestinal disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome.

But taking supplements comes with risks, and for many healthy adults, it’s not always clear from research that the benefits outweigh the risks.

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research on ginger health benefits

In fact, some randomized trials have found that assigning people to take supplements with large doses of beta-carotene, selenium, and vitamins A, C, and E actually increased mortality rates. Rigorous clinical trials have also failed to support the hype around vitamin D, finding that people who were assigned to take the popular supplement did not develop lower rates of cardiovascular disease, cancer or bone fractures despite widespread marketing claims to the contrary.

Supplements don’t follow the same rules as drugs

Many people assume that the Food and Drug Administration tests supplements for safety. But that’s not how it works .

“Dietary supplements enter the market before there’s any real review of them by the FDA,” said Amy B. Cadwallader, the director of regulatory and public policy development at the United States Pharmacopeia, a nonprofit organization that examines the quality of drugs, food and dietary supplements.

Under federal law, companies are allowed to operate on the honor system. The FDA’s role in regulating supplements mostly involves trying to make sure products are safe and accurately labeled after they have already entered the marketplace.

Are you getting what you paid for?

In the United States, companies sell an estimated 90,000 dietary supplements, representing a roughly $50 billion industry . As a result, some experts say, consumers who buy supplements can’t always be sure that they are getting what they paid for. Studies of melatonin , fish oil , probiotics , ginkgo biloba , and other supplements have found that the doses and compounds listed on their labels are often not what are found in their bottles.

  • In one study in the journal Pediatric Research , researchers tested 16 probiotic supplements and found that only one of them contained the specific bacterial strains listed on its label.
  • In another study , researchers tested 30 dietary supplements that claimed to strengthen immune health and found that 17 of the products were “misbranded.” These supplements either lacked key ingredients listed on their labels — such as vitamin B12, garlic extract, ginger root and folate — or they contained a variety of unlisted ingredients.
  • One study by the FDA estimated that the agency is notified of less than 1 percent of all adverse events linked to supplement use. Another study by the federal government estimated that injuries caused by supplements are responsible for about 23,000 emergency room visits each year.

Howard Luks, an orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist in New York, said he routinely encounters patients who worry about potential side effects from medications but have no problem taking 10 or 20 supplements that they heard about from health influencers on social media. He said that many people who lost trust in public health authorities during the pandemic have turned to social media influencers for health advice.

“They view supplements as being holistic, natural, and therefore not potentially harmful for them,” he said.

In one case study published in March, doctors in New Jersey described a 76-year-old woman who went to an emergency room after experiencing heart palpitations, dizziness and fainting episodes. It turned out she had been taking black cohosh, an herbal supplement often used to treat hot flashes. A few days after stopping the supplement, her heartbeat returned to normal, and her other symptoms disappeared.

In another recent case , a 47-year-old woman in Houston suffered jaundice and liver damage after taking a supplement containing a blend of probiotics and herbal extracts. The case report noted that dietary supplements account for about 20 percent of drug-induced liver injuries nationwide.

How to shop smarter for supplements

Here are some tips when buying supplements.

Look for third-party certifications: The United States Pharmacopeia, or USP, vets dietary supplements to ensure they are meeting high standards for factors such as purity and potency. USP has a voluntary program through which companies can have their supplements and facilities routinely tested and examined. Companies that meet the organizations high standards are allowed to use a black and yellow “USP Verified” logo on their products. You can find them using the product-finder search tool on USP’s website. NSF is another independent group that tests and reviews dietary supplements. You can look for the blue and white “NSF” logo on your supplements or go to the group’s website to look up products.

Do your homework. Consumerlab.com is an independent laboratory that tests dietary supplements to see if they contain the ingredients and doses listed on their labels. The company publishes reports with their findings on a wide variety of supplements, which you can access on their website for a fee.

Talk to your doctor or pharmacist . Many people don’t realize that a lot of supplements and medications use the same metabolic pathways and that they can cause dangerous side effects when you combine them, said Michael Schuh, an assistant professor of pharmacy, family medicine and palliative medicine at the Mayo Clinic in Florida.

Vitamins E and K, ginseng, ginkgo biloba, resveratrol, turmeric and CoQ10 for example can interact with blood thinning medications. Vitamin C can interact with statins, niacin, estrogen, warfarin and chemotherapy drugs. St. John’s wort can make antidepressants and birth control pills less effective.

“We see it with a lot of supplements,” Schuh said. “Even something like resveratrol from grape skins: When you take it in concentrated form, it can interact with a lot of medications.”

Do you have a question about healthy eating? Email [email protected] and we may answer your question in a future column.

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  • Children and adults are gobbling supplements. Do you know the risks? May 1, 2024 Children and adults are gobbling supplements. Do you know the risks? May 1, 2024
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Health Benefits of Shilajit

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Shilajit, also known as mumiyo or mumie, is an organic mineral compound found in the Himalayan mountains and mountainous regions in Russia, Afghanistan, and elsewhere. This naturally occurring, blackish-brown resin contains over 40 minerals and substances, most notably fulvic acid.  

Shilajit has been used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine in Nepal and India for many years. Some evidence suggests that shilajit has antioxidant and inflammatory properties.  

The safety and potential side effects of shilajit supplements are relatively unknown due to a lack of research. Talk to a healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting a shilajit supplement. Read on to learn about shilajit, including potential benefits, risks, and more.

fotostorm / getty images

4 Benefits of Shilajit

Human research on the health benefits of shilajit is limited and ongoing. Some experts believe that shilajit has the potential to treat many health conditions, from chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) to male infertility.

1. Has Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects

Shilajit has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The compound is thought to promote greater longevity and have anti-aging properties in Ayurvedic medicine. These benefits can support overall health and reduce the risk of certain conditions.

Research has shown that shilajit may also:

  • Increase cell turnover
  • Potentially encourage the body to produce more collagen
  • Slow down oxidative stress

2. May Prevent Bone Loss

Shilajit may have a positive effect on bone health. A study published in 2022 found postmenopausal women with osteopenia (low bone mineral density) who took shilajit supplements daily saw significant improvements in bone density after 11 months. The researchers theorized that this effect may be due to shilajit's ability to speed up cell turnover.

3. Could Increase Male Fertility

Shilajit may increase male fertility by boosting key hormones. Research has shown that taking 500 milligrams (mg) of shilajit per day can significantly increased dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEAS) and total testosterone levels.

4. Might Improve Exercise Performance

A growing body of research indicates that shilajit can be helpful for exercise efforts. Some evidence suggests that athletes have less post-workout fatigue and are better able to reach peak muscular strength after taking shilajit supplements.

Other research has found that shilajit can aid in muscle elasticity and repair during an exercise training regimen. Some experts find these findings to be promising in terms of shilajit’s potential benefits for people with CFS.

How To Take Shilajit

You can find shilajit supplements at many online shops, pharmacies, drugstores, and health food stores. It's available as a dissolvable powder for drinks like water or milk and as a capsule.

Shilajit isn't regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), meaning there's no set dosage deemed safe and effective. The dose administered in some clinical studies has been between 300–500 mg once per day.

It's best to follow the dosing instructions from the manufacturer listed on the label if you are taking a shilajit supplement. You can also talk to a healthcare provider for guidance on finding a safe and effective dose.

Is Shilajit Safe?

Shilajit isn't FDA-approved, and the research on it is limited. There's insufficient information about its side effects or safety among different populations. Some evidence suggests that shilajit is safe and well-tolerated by most people, even when taken long-term. Very few adverse reactions have been reported.  

Talk to a healthcare provider before taking shilajit. They can advise you about potential drug interactions and side effects. Don't take shilajit to treat a health condition or to replace a prescription drug without consulting a healthcare provider.

Potential Drug Interactions

There's no evidence of shilajit interacting with medications. It's still possible that the compound may interact with certain drugs. More research is needed, but it's important to talk to a healthcare provider about any other supplements or medications you take before taking shilajit.

What To Look For

The FDA does not regulate supplements the same way it does food and drugs. Look for shilajit supplements that have been third-party tested to ensure a product's safety.

Organizations like NSF International, Consumer Lab, and U.S. Pharmacopeia test products to confirm they contain the ingredients listed on the label and do not contain a harmful level of contaminants. Look for the organization's seal on the bottle.

Look for words like "purified" on the label, and follow the instructions closely. Avoid raw, unprocessed shilajit, which can be contaminated.

Can You Take Too Much?

No adverse reactions have been recorded from taking large doses of shilajit. There's not enough research to confirm shilajit is not toxic when taken in excessive amounts.

Side Effects

The potential side effects of shilajit are unclear due to limited research. Talk to a healthcare provider about any conditions you have and other medications you take regularly before taking shilajit.

Shilajit can cause an allergic reaction like any other substance. Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you develop symptoms of anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction):

  • Difficulty breathing, speaking, or swallowing
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Rapid heart rate
  • Stomach pain
  • Swelling in the face, tongue, eyes, lips, throat, or mouth

A Quick Review

Shilajit's purported health benefits include heightened male fertility through higher testosterone levels. There's also evidence to suggest shilajit may lower the risk of bone loss, reduce inflammation, and improve exercise performance. 

Talk to a healthcare provider before trying shilajit. The FDA doesn't regulate shilajit, and evidence about its efficacy in treating health conditions is very limited.

Ding R, Zhao M, Fan J, et al. Mechanisms of generation and exudation of Tibetan medicine shilajit (zhaxun) . Chin Med . 2020;15:65. doi:10.1186/s13020-020-00343-9

Keller JL, Housh TJ, Hill EC, et al. The effects of shilajit supplementation on fatigue-induced decreases in muscular strength and serum hydroxyproline levels . J Int Soc Sports Nutr . 2019;16(1):3. doi:10.1186/s12970-019-0270-2

Pingali U, Nutalapati C. Shilajit extract reduces oxidative stress, inflammation, and bone loss to dose-dependently preserve bone mineral density in postmenopausal women with osteopenia: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial . Phytomedicine . 2022;105:154334. doi:10.1016/j.phymed.2022.154334

Neltner TJ, Sahoo PK, Smith RW, et al. Effects of 8 weeks of shilajit supplementation on serum pro-c1α1, a biomarker of Type 1 collagen synthesis: A randomized control trial . J Diet Suppl . 2022:1-12. doi:10.1080/19390211.2022.2157522

Pandit S, Biswas S, Jana U, et al. Clinical evaluation of purified shilajit on testosterone levels in healthy volunteers . Andrologia . 2016;48(5):570-5. doi:10.1111/and.12482

Das A, Datta S, Rhea B, et al. The human skeletal muscle transcriptome in response to oral shilajit supplementation . J Med Food . 2016;19(7):701-9. doi:10.1089/jmf.2016.0010

Stohs SJ. Safety and efficacy of shilajit (mumie, moomiyo) . Phytother Res . 2014;28(4):475-9. doi:10.1002/ptr.5018

Office of Dietary Supplements. Botanical dietary supplements background information .

MedlinePlus. Anaphylaxis .

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Lifeway Research

Lifeway Research

Enlightening today’s church with relevant research and insights

Weekly Church Attendance Leads to Better Health

Insights | Faith & Culture | May 2, 2024

Family holding hands on the edge of the ocean - weekly church attendance leads to better health

Numerous studies demonstrate the overall health benefits of regular church attendance. Why aren’t we talking about this?

By Aaron Earls

Looking to keep the doctor away? A weekly church visit may do more than an apple a day.

A Harvard Public Health article highlights numerous studies demonstrating the overall health benefits of regular church attendance.

Tyler VanderWeele, professor of epidemiology at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, notes that public health advice and textbooks for would-be doctors often ignore the benefits of religious attendance. “The standard narrative for the neglect sometimes seems to be that ‘there is not actually that much research around the impact of spirituality on health.’ This, however, is simply not the case,” he writes.

Citing numerous studies and analyses, VanderWeele argues that the evidence suggests weekly religious service attendance is associated with “lower mortality risk, lower depression, less suicide, better cardiovascular disease survival, better health behaviors, and greater marital stability, happiness, and purpose in life.”

Attending church

While this is good news for churchgoers, fewer Americans are gaining this benefit today compared to years past. More Americans say they never attend religious services (31%) than say they attend every week (21%), according to Gallup. Protestants are more likely to attend weekly. Still, only 30% say they’re at church each week, and 14% say they’re there almost weekly.

The decline in worship service attendance has influenced how churches define a regular churchgoer . Pastors are more lax with the definition than churchgoers.

research on ginger health benefits

For those who attend at least monthly, 59% say someone has to attend weekly or more to be a regular churchgoer, and 12% say at least three times a month. Among pastors, 16% say a regular churchgoer must attend weekly or more, while 15% say at least three times a month.

Religion and public health

Meanwhile, the health benefits of church attendance may be why pastors grade their health higher than the average American . While pastors have responsibilities connected with worship services that aren’t shared by others, they still may gain from their involvement.

Obviously, physical health benefits should not be the primary motivation for followers of Christ to become involved in a local congregation. Christians should regularly attend worship services out of obedience and a desire to know God and His people better. But that doesn’t mean this information can’t encourage those who remain on the fringes or need extra motivation to stay involved.

“Looking at the data we have on religious participation and health, it seems reasonable to encourage those who already identify with a religious tradition to participate in communal religious life,” wrote VanderWeele. Health officials ignoring this data means they “are neglecting an important health resource, and will be leaving the population in poorer health.”

The epidemiology professor argued, “It is time for the neglect of religion in public health conversations to change.”

For permission to republish this article, contact  Marissa Postell Sullivan .

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Aaron Earls

@WardrobeDoor

Aaron is the senior writer at Lifeway Research.

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5 benefits of bibimbap: The nutrient-rich Korean delicacy everyone loves!

If you keep up with Korean trends, you would know how Korean food has become popular around the world. While you have always loved Korean food or try this cuisine, you need to try bibimbap – a Korean dish everyone loves around the world. Bibimbap is part of the classic Korean cuisine. It is a delicious and healthy meal that satisfies your taste buds and offers various health benefits. Here are all the health benefits of bibimbap and how you can prepare chicken bibimbap.

What is bibimbap?

For the uninitiated, bibimbap is a Korean dish that literally means “mixed rice.” It is prepared by blending an array of vibrant and savoury ingredients such as egg, zucchini, bean sprouts, carrot, and protein like thinly sliced chicken, marinated spicy pork, or tofu. This comforting food – bibimbap is a nutritious and well-balanced meal that is loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Here are some of the health benefits of bibimbap.

Health benefits of bibimbap

Here are some of the notable health benefits of bibimbap.

1. High in protein

Bibimbap is high in protein. It is a good source of protein and the ingredients used to prepare it such as chicken, pork, and eggs, contribute to it. If you are vegan, you can add tofu, legumes, and soybean. All these ingredients are high sources of protein which are necessary for the development and repair of the tissue of the body. Protein also helps you feel full and satisfied after a meal, according to a 2023 study published in the Research Gate Journal .

2. Rich in nutrients

“This rainbow food is highly nutritious and contributes to a well-maintained diet. Carrots, which are high in Vitamin A, are a major ingredient in this recipe and help support healthy bones, eyes, skin, and digestive system. Additionally, eggs are typically added to the recipe. Eggs are high in protein and a great source of vitamins B2, B12, and E. Nori, or dried seaweed, is another common ingredient in bibimbap. It is rich in nutritional fibre, vital amino acids, and vitamins A, B, C, and E, says nutritionist Kiran Dalal .

3. Aids in weight loss

Bibimbap is a low-fat choice that promotes a healthy weight. Although it contains carbohydrates, research published in Research Gate Journal indicates that people have a lower glycemic reaction to the dish than to Western cuisines with the same amount of carbohydrates. Lower glycemic index foods reduce blood sugar spikes, which can cause weight gain, cardiac problems, and cardiovascular disease. Bibimbap is a heart-healthy, adaptable, and satisfying food that people can eat guilt-free every day.

4. Rich in antioxidants

Bibimbap contains a variety of antioxidants that help protect the body from toxic substances known as free radicals. Antioxidant-rich ingredients in the dish include the gochujang sauce and the veggies, according to a study published in the Journal of Ethnic Food .

5. Good source of fibre

Bibimbap is a high-fibre food that is beneficial for keeping the digestive tract in good condition. Additionally, fibre lowers cholesterol and helps to control blood sugar levels. So, if you are looking for a tasty yet high source of fibre food, start incorporating bibimbap into your diet.

How to prepare chicken bibimbap?

Here is the complete recipe of chicken bibimbap as explained by the expert:

Ingredients:

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, minced
  • ¼ cup soy sauce (60 mL)
  • 4 tablespoons sesame oil, divided
  • 1 tablespoon mirin
  • 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
  • Boneless, skinless chicken thighs(455 g), sliced into 1/2 inch (1 1/4 cm) strips
  • 4 cups fresh spinach(160 g)
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 large carrots, julienne
  • 8 ounces shiitake mushroom(150 g), stems removed, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 2 large eggs

1. Mix 2 cloves garlic, ginger, soy sauce, 2 tablespoons sesame oil, mirin, and brown sugar in a shallow dish by whisking them together. 2. Toss to coat after adding the chicken. Refrigerate the mixture for half an hour while it marinates, covered with plastic wrap. 3. Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat and add some salt to season. In a big bowl, make an ice bath. Spinach should be blanched for 30 seconds in boiling water, then drained and placed in an ice bath to shock. Move to a small bowl and add salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil to taste. 4. Heat 1 teaspoon sesame oil in a medium-sized skillet over medium heat. Add the carrots and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes or until tender. Take out of the pan and place aside. Add some salt for seasoning. 5. Heat one tablespoon of sesame oil in the same skillet over medium-high heat. When the garlic is fragrant, add the remaining clove and simmer for 30 seconds. 6. Add the mushrooms and simmer for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly, or until the mushrooms are tender. After adding salt for seasoning, take it out of the pan and put it aside. 7. Heat the last tablespoon of sesame oil in the same skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring now and then, until the chicken is thoroughly cooked. 8. Preheat a nonstick pan to medium-high heat. In the pan, melt the butter. After the foaming stops, crack the eggs into the pan and cook until the yolks are still runny and the whites are firm and golden brown around the edges, or until done to your preference. 9. Place the chicken, kimchi, carrots, spinach, mushrooms, cucumbers, and fried eggs over the rice in the bibimbap bowls.

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Are there any side effects of bibimbap?

While bibimbap is generally safe to consume, individuals with allergies should consult a healthcare professional before making it a dietary staple.

Is it good to eat bibimbap every day?

You can have bibimbap often but nothing is good when consumed in excess. However, it is a staple in Korean households as the majority of Koreans eat rice regularly. But one thing to keep in mind when enjoying bibimbap is that its ingredients are nutritious. All you need to do is add some vegetables to the bibimbap to make it more healthy and nutritious.

Get Latest Updates on Healthy Eating , Nutrition , Recipes , Superfoods

Shruti Bhattacharya is a content writer and editor for over 2 years. She specialises in writing on a variety of topics such as wellness, lifestyle, beauty, technology and fashion. Her current focus is on creating factually correct and informative stories for readers. ... Read More

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Research: More People Use Mental Health Benefits When They Hear That Colleagues Use Them Too

  • Laura M. Giurge,
  • Lauren C. Howe,
  • Zsofia Belovai,
  • Guusje Lindemann,
  • Sharon O’Connor

research on ginger health benefits

A study of 2,400 Novartis employees around the world found that simply hearing about others’ struggles can normalize accessing support at work.

Novartis has trained more than 1,000 employees as Mental Health First Aiders to offer peer-to-peer support for their colleagues. While employees were eager for the training, uptake of the program remains low. To understand why, a team of researchers conducted a randomized controlled trial with 2,400 Novartis employees who worked in the UK, Ireland, India, and Malaysia. Employees were shown one of six framings that were designed to overcome two key barriers: privacy concerns and usage concerns. They found that employees who read a story about their colleague using the service were more likely to sign up to learn more about the program, and that emphasizing the anonymity of the program did not seem to have an impact. Their findings suggest that one way to encourage employees to make use of existing mental health resources is by creating a supportive culture that embraces sharing about mental health challenges at work.

“I almost scheduled an appointment about a dozen times. But no, in the end I never went. I just wasn’t sure if my problems were big enough to warrant help and I didn’t want to take up someone else’s time unnecessarily.”

research on ginger health benefits

  • Laura M. Giurge is an assistant professor at the London School of Economics, and a faculty affiliate at London Business School. Her research focuses on time and boundaries in organizations, workplace well-being, and the future of work. She is also passionate about translating research to the broader public through interactive and creative keynote talks, workshops, and coaching. Follow her on LinkedIn  here .
  • Lauren C. Howe is an assistant professor in management at the University of Zurich. As head of research at the Center for Leadership in the Future of Work , she focuses on how human aspects, such as mindsets, socioemotional skills, and leadership, play a role in the changing world of work.
  • Zsofia Belovai is a behavioral science lead for the organizational performance research practice at MoreThanNow, focusing on exploring how employee welfare can drive KPIs.
  • Guusje Lindemann is a senior behavioral scientist at MoreThanNow, in the social impact and organizational performance practices, working on making the workplace better for all.
  • Sharon O’Connor is the global employee wellbeing lead at Novartis. She is a founding member of the Wellbeing Executives Council of The Conference Board, and a guest lecturer on the Workplace Wellness postgraduate certificate at Trinity College Dublin.

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COMMENTS

  1. Ginger on Human Health: A Comprehensive Systematic Review of 109 Randomized Controlled Trials

    1. Introduction. Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe), a well-known herbaceous plant, has been widely used as a flavoring agent and herbal medicine for centuries.Furthermore, the consumption of the ginger rhizome is a typical traditional remedy to relieve common health problems, including pain, nausea, and vomiting [].Notably, a prominent number of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) have been ...

  2. Ginger Bioactives: A Comprehensive Review of Health Benefits and

    Ginger has been the subject of extensive research in the past owing to its possible health advantages. Several authors have reviewed the available literature and discussed the bioactive compounds present in ginger, the techniques used for their extraction, health promoting features, the encapsulation of ginger bioactives, and some specific or ...

  3. Ginger Benefits

    Both forms contain all the health benefits of ginger. Though it's hard to beat the flavor of the fresh root, ginger powder is nutritious, convenient and economical. ... Ginger Side Effects. Research shows that ginger is safe for most people to eat in normal amounts — such as those in food and recipes. However, there are a couple of concerns.

  4. Ginger on Human Health: A Comprehensive Systematic Review of 109

    This systematic review aims to provide a comprehensive discussion in terms of the clinical effects of ginger in all reported areas. Following the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guideline, randomized controlled trials on the effects of ginger were investigated. Accordingly, 109 eligible papers were ...

  5. Orally consumed ginger and human health: an umbrella review

    Strengths, limitations, and priorities for future research. n n. 3 4. Go to: Conclusion. Orally consumed ginger was found to be safe and confer therapeutic effects on human health and well-being, with greatest confidence in effect for antiemetic effects in pregnant women, analgesic effects in osteoarthritis, and glycemic control.

  6. Ginger for Healthy Ageing: A Systematic Review on Current Evidence of

    Several of the health benefits of ginger and the underlying biological mechanisms are described below. ... In another study conducted by the same research team, the combination of ginger extract and Gelam honey was reported to exhibit chemopreventive activity in HT29 colon cancer cells by modulating the Ras/ERK and PI3K/AKT pathways in a ...

  7. Orally consumed ginger and human health: an umbrella review

    Background: Emerging evidence supports the health benefits of ginger for a range of conditions and symptoms; however, there is a lack of synthesis of literature to determine which health indications are supported by quality evidence. Objectives: In this umbrella review of systematic reviews we aimed to determine the therapeutic effects and safety of any type of ginger from the Zingiber family ...

  8. (PDF) Ginger Update: Potential Health Benefits

    Ginger has been a part of traditional. medicine for thousands of years treating such ailments as. gastrointestinal disorders, nausea, pain, cold, and asthma. In the past 10 to 15 years, a ...

  9. Health Benefits of Ginger

    Improves blood sugar regulation. Gingerol could also explain ginger's role in keeping blood sugar levels steady. This is key to controlling the long-term health effects of Type 2 diabetes ...

  10. Ginger

    Ginger has been used safely in many research studies where it was taken orally (by mouth) as a dietary supplement. Ginger products may also be safe for topical use (on the skin). Ginger can have side effects such as abdominal discomfort, heartburn, diarrhea, and mouth and throat irritation, especially if taken in large doses.

  11. New research adds evidence to the benefits of ginger ...

    The researchers hope that providing more evidence about ginger's benefits, including the direct mechanism by which ginger impacts neutrophils, will encourage health care providers and patients to ...

  12. Ginger: Health benefits and dietary tips

    Some research indicates that ginger may improve digestive health, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain, among other benefits. However, studies often test very high dosages of extracts.

  13. Full article: Clinical aspects and health benefits of ginger (Zingiber

    ABSTRACT. Ginger (Zingiber officinale) has been used as a spice and medicine for over 200 years in Traditional Chinese Medicine.It is an important plant with several medicinal, and nutritional values used in Asian and Chinese Tradition medicine. Ginger and its general compounds such as Fe, Mg, Ca, vitamin C, flavonoids, phenolic compounds (gingerdiol, gingerol, gingerdione and shogaols ...

  14. Ginger and Heart Health: From Mechanisms to Therapeutics

    Amongst natural entities, ginger is used as a traditional medicine in several diseases. The crude extract, along with related pungent active constituents, is mostly attributed to heart health. The cardioprotective effects of ginger are contributed to its cardiotonic, anti- hypertensive, anti-hyperlipidemia, and anti-platelet effects.

  15. Ginger: An Overview of Health Benefits : Nutrition Today

    There is scientific support that ginger may alleviate the symptoms of nausea and vomiting following pregnancy, surgery, cancer therapy, or motion sickness and suggestive evidence that ginger reduces inflammation and pain. Cell culture studies show that ginger has antioxidant properties. However, it is not known whether ginger antioxidant ...

  16. Health Benefits of Ginger

    Health Benefits of Ginger. Medically Reviewed by Christine Mikstas, RD, LD on December ... ovarian, liver, skin, breast, and prostate cancer. But much more research is needed to see if this is true.

  17. Why you should consider adding ginger to your diet

    Health benefits of ginger. Ginger contains vitamin C, magnesium and potassium, which are all valuable to your health. But ginger's secret weapon is one of its natural oils: gingerol. ... But research shows that ginger may be just as effective at easing period pain as over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen.

  18. Ginger: Health Benefits & Side-Effects

    Ginger Health Benefits. Ginger is a common folk treatment for upset stomach and nausea. There's evidence that it helps. ... But more research is needed to know for sure.

  19. MSN

    In winter, ginger is a popular addition to hot tea, known for bolstering the body's resistance against infections and serving as a traditional remedy. While its health benefits are numerous, it's ...

  20. Ginger on Human Health: A Comprehensive Systematic Review of 109 ...

    Clinical applications of ginger with an expectation of clinical benefits are receiving significant attention. This systematic review aims to provide a comprehensive discussion in terms of the clinical effects of ginger in all reported areas. Following the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guideline, randomized controlled trials on the effects of ginger ...

  21. Music and Health: What You Need To Know

    Much research is being done on the potential benefits of music-based interventions for people with cognitive impairment or various types of dementia, such as Alzheimer's disease. Limited evidence suggests that music-based interventions may improve emotional well-being, behavioral challenges, and quality of life in people with these conditions.

  22. Does Green Tea Have Caffeine?

    Weight loss: Green tea contains a catechin (a type of plant compound) called epigallocatechin gallate, which research suggests may help reduce body weight. Catechins may promote small changes in metabolism that may aid with weight loss. Cognition benefits: Green tea has ingredients that may improve brain function, cognition, and brain function. These ingredients include l-theanine and caffeine.

  23. 6 cold shower benefits to consider

    Limited research is available about the effects of cold water therapy on depression. But the research that exists shows some positive results. In one clinical study, participants who took daily cold showers for several months reported decreased depression symptoms. Additional research suggests that cold water may boost your mood and decrease ...

  24. Supplement and vitamin use remains popular. Here's how to choose wisely

    These supplements either lacked key ingredients listed on their labels — such as vitamin B12, garlic extract, ginger root and folate — or they contained a variety of unlisted ingredients.

  25. Shilajit: 4 Benefits, Uses, Side Effects

    Shilajit, also known as mumiyo or mumie, is an organic mineral compound found in the Himalayan mountains and mountainous regions in Russia, Afghanistan, and elsewhere. This naturally occurring ...

  26. Weekly Church Attendance Leads to Better Health

    A Harvard Public Health article highlights numerous studies demonstrating the overall health benefits of regular church attendance. Tyler VanderWeele, professor of epidemiology at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, notes that public health advice and textbooks for would-be doctors often ignore the benefits of religious attendance.

  27. Research highlights the mental and physical health benefits of spending

    Research shows the link between better mental health, physical health and spending time outside. Stephanie Stahl reports.

  28. Anti-Oxidative and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Ginger in Health and

    The health-promoting perspective of ginger is attributed to its rich phytochemistry. Jolad et al. grouped fresh ginger into two wide range categories, i.e. volatiles and non-volatiles. Volatiles include sesquiterpene and monoterpenoid hydrocarbons providing the distinct aroma and taste of ginger. ... Some research studies have proved the ...

  29. 5 health benefits of bibimbap

    3. Aids in weight loss. Bibimbap is a low-fat choice that promotes a healthy weight. Although it contains carbohydrates, research published in Research Gate Journal indicates that people have a lower glycemic reaction to the dish than to Western cuisines with the same amount of carbohydrates. Lower glycemic index foods reduce blood sugar spikes, which can cause weight gain, cardiac problems ...

  30. Research: More People Use Mental Health Benefits When They Hear That

    Novartis has trained more than 1,000 employees as Mental Health First Aiders to offer peer-to-peer support for their colleagues. While employees were eager for the training, uptake of the program ...