Are you a fan of ginger ale? Then you might be surprised to know that an 8 fl oz (240 ml) serving of ginger ale contains around 80 calories. However, this fizzy drink also comes with some benefits that may make it worth enjoying in moderation.
Aside from quenching your thirst, ginger ale can provide some relief from nausea, reduce inflammation, and improve digestion. It also has a natural sweetness that can satisfy your cravings, without relying on added sugars.
In this article, we'll explore the history and origin of ginger ale, its potential health benefits, and how to make homemade ginger ale at home. Let's dive in!
Did You Know? Ginger Ale Originated in Ireland
Contrary to popular belief, ginger ale was not invented in Canada, but actually originated in Ireland in the 19th century. At that time, ginger ale was made by fermenting ginger root, sugar, and water, which resulted in a slightly alcoholic beverage. It wasn't until the early 20th century when ginger ale started to become popular in North America, thanks to the availability of carbonation technology. Nowadays, ginger ale can be found all over the world, with different variations and recipes to suit different tastes.
5 Surprising Benefits of Ginger Ale
Ginger ale has numerous potential benefits for your health, thanks to the natural anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea properties of ginger. Here are just a few of them:
- Relieves nausea and vomiting
- Reduces inflammation and pain
- Improves digestion and relieves constipation
- Boosts immunity and fights off infection
- Can help alleviate menstrual cramps and headaches
Of course, it's important to note that ginger ale should not be relied on as a cure-all or treatment for any medical conditions. If you have any persistent symptoms or concerns, it's best to speak with a healthcare provider.
Ginger Ale vs Ginger Beer: Know the Differences
Ginger ale and ginger beer may sound like interchangeable terms, but there are actually some key differences between the two. Ginger ale is a milder, sweeter beverage that usually contains less than 0.5% alcohol. It's carbonated, bubbly, and often served on its own or used as a mixer in cocktails. On the other hand, ginger beer is a stronger, spicier drink that is typically brewed for a longer time and may contain more alcohol (sometimes up to 11%). It's often used in cocktails like the Moscow Mule, which calls for ginger beer, lime juice, and vodka. So, if you're in the mood for a lighter, more refreshing beverage, reach for ginger ale. But if you want a kick of heat and flavor, ginger beer might be more your style.
4 Ginger Ale Cocktails to Try at Home
Speaking of cocktails, ginger ale can be a great addition to any bar cart, thanks to its subtle flavor and low alcohol content. Here are a few recipes to get you started:
- Moscow Mule: Mix ginger beer, vodka and lime juice in a copper mug
- Dark and Stormy: Mix ginger beer, dark rum and lime juice in a highball glass
- Ginger Peach Fizz: Mix ginger ale, peach nectar, and sparkling water in a champagne flute and garnish with a peach slice
- Ginger Lemonade: Mix ginger ale, lemonade, and a splash of gin and garnish with a lemon twist
These cocktails are just the beginning - feel free to experiment with your own flavors and combinations to create the perfect ginger ale drink for you!
Is Ginger Ale Good for Upset Stomachs?
Yes, ginger ale can be beneficial for soothing an upset stomach, thanks to the natural anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea properties of ginger. Ginger has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for digestive issues, including bloating, cramping, nausea, and diarrhea. Ginger ale can also help to soothe an upset stomach by reducing inflammation in the digestive tract and promoting better digestion overall. However, make sure to choose a ginger ale with real ginger, as some commercial brands may contain artificial flavors and added sugars that can have the opposite effect.
What Are the Ingredients in Ginger Ale?
The basic ingredients in ginger ale usually include carbonated water, sugar or sweeteners, and natural or artificial flavorings. However, the most important ingredient that gives ginger ale its signature taste and potential health benefits is, of course, ginger. Some commercial brands of ginger ale may contain only small amounts of real ginger, and instead rely on artificial flavors and colors to mimic the taste. To get the best benefits from ginger ale, look for brands that use real ginger, or try making your own ginger ale at home.
How to Make Homemade Ginger Ale?
Making your own ginger ale at home is actually quite easy, and allows you to control the quality and ingredients of the final product. Here's a simple recipe to get started:
- Peel and grate a 2-inch piece of fresh ginger root
- In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and 1 cup of granulated sugar, and bring to a boil
- Lower the heat, add the ginger and let simmer for 10-15 minutes
- Remove from heat and let cool completely. Strain the ginger syrup into a container
- In a separate pitcher, mix 1 cup of the ginger syrup with 2 cups of carbonated water
- Stir to combine, and serve over ice. Garnish with fresh mint or lemon if desired
This recipe can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences - use more or less ginger for a spicier or milder flavor, or experiment with different sweeteners like honey or agave syrup. Enjoy!
Ginger Ale: A Kid-Friendly Drink?
Ginger ale can be a tasty and refreshing option for kids, especially if you opt for a natural or low-sugar variety. However, it's important to note that ginger ale should still be consumed in moderation, as it can contain caffeine or sugar that may not be suitable for young children. If you're looking for other alternatives to sugary sodas or juices, you can try making your own healthy mocktails with ginger ale and fresh fruit, or diluting the ginger ale with water to create a fizzy, low-calorie beverage.
Does Ginger Ale Help with Nausea and Motion Sickness?
Yes, ginger ale can be an effective remedy for nausea and motion sickness, thanks to the natural anti-inflammatory and antiemetic properties of ginger. Ginger has been shown to reduce the symptoms of nausea and vomiting in studies, and is often used by pregnant women or cancer patients to alleviate these side effects. Drinking ginger ale before or during a car ride, boat trip, or plane journey can also help to prevent motion sickness and dizziness.
Ginger Ale: Is It a Healthier Alternative to Soda?
While ginger ale may be a lower-calorie and more natural option than some sodas, it's still a sweetened beverage that should be enjoyed in moderation. Some commercial brands of ginger ale may also contain added sugars, artificial flavors, or high-fructose corn syrup, which can contribute to obesity, diabetes, and other health problems if consumed in excess. To make ginger ale a healthier choice, look for brands with natural sweeteners or make your own at home with real ginger and a low-calorie sweetener. Ultimately, ginger ale can be a tasty and refreshing drink, but it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.
Ginger ale has a subtle, spicy flavor and a natural sweetness that makes it a great addition to any drink menu. Whether you're mixing up a cocktail, easing an upset stomach, or simply craving something fizzy, ginger ale can be a satisfying choice. Just remember to enjoy it in moderation, and choose brands with real ginger for the best benefits.
5 FAQ About Ginger Ale and its Caloric Content
1. Is ginger ale a low-calorie beverage?
No, ginger ale is not considered a low-calorie beverage, as an 8 fl oz (240 ml) serving contains 80 calories. However, it may contain fewer calories than other sweetened sodas, which can have upwards of 150-200 calories per serving.
2. Is there a sugar-free ginger ale option available to reduce calories?
Yes, many brands offer sugar-free or diet versions of ginger ale, which contain zero calories or very low calorie content. However, they may contain artificial sweeteners, which some people may wish to avoid.
3. Can consuming ginger ale regularly lead to weight gain?
Drinking ginger ale regularly, especially if it is high in sugar, can increase calorie intake and lead to weight gain if not balanced with an appropriate diet and exercise regimen. Moderation is key.
4. How can I reduce the caloric content of ginger ale if I still want to drink it?
One way to reduce the caloric content of ginger ale is to opt for a smaller serving size, such as a 4 fl oz (120 ml) or 6 fl oz (180 ml) serving. You could also dilute the ginger ale with water or mix it with non-caloric beverages to reduce overall calorie intake.
5. Are there any health benefits to drinking ginger ale?
Ginger, the root used to flavor ginger ale, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and may aid in digestion and nausea relief. However, many commercial ginger ale products contain high amounts of sugar and artificial flavors, which may outweigh any potential health benefits. Consuming ginger in its natural form or in homemade ginger ale may be a healthier option.