Instead of mugs of coffee every day of the week, why not shots of ginger to start the morning or when one seeks an energy boost during fatigue? Enters Dr. Alicia Bigelow, ND, and Rachel Goldman, PhD, FTOS, to shed light on this debate about benefits. So will it be java lava or spice that gets workers through a busy day?

Dr. Bigelow, a naturopathic physician knows the path in a verywellmind capture. Sharing her expertise with the online magazine, she emphasises the mood-lifting and anti-inflammatory benefits of ginger. She points out that depression is often linked to inflammation and consuming foods rich in antioxidants, like ginger, can help combat this.

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Moreover, ginger’s antioxidants, such as gingerols, shogaol, and paradols, are not only warriors against free radicals but also boosters of mood and energy.

On the flip side, coffee, the beloved beverage of millions, is well-known for its caffeine content, which stimulates the central nervous system, providing that well-known jolt of energy. However, Dr. Bigelow suggests that to truly have energy, one must focus on restful sleep, balanced blood sugar levels, and good nutrition, rather than relying solely on caffeine.

Stating one of the perks, she said: It also is warming and dilates blood vessels, which can also help to make us feel brighter and more awake and alive. Is this not why the whole world drinks coffee?

Rachel Goldman, PhD, on her part, adds to the conversation by highlighting the holistic approach to health. She suggests that the mind-body connection is crucial and that stress reduction and health behaviour change are essential for maintaining energy levels.

This implies that while coffee might offer a quick fix, it’s the overall lifestyle that truly powers our energy reserves.

Most of the time, something is going on in their life that is impacting their mood and energy, such as a recent stressor. This is Dr  Goldman talking to the verywellmind magazine still, about body systems and paying attention to signs early enough.  

Added to this was her thought that our mind and body are always giving us messages. If something feels off, take some time to think about what the potential cause could be. It could be that you are constantly on the go and need to slow down. We often ignore messages our bodies give us, which is why regular check-ins are important.

So, what’s the verdict? It seems that both ginger shots and coffee have their place in the realm of energy-boosting options.

Ginger offers a natural, antioxidant-rich alternative that can also positively affect mood, while coffee provides a more immediate and familiar energy surge. The choice between the two may come down to personal preference, lifestyle, and how your body responds to these different stimuli.

As we navigate through the myriad of options for our morning pick-me-ups, it’s clear that the best choice is the one that aligns with our individual health goals and needs. Whether you’re team coffee or team ginger shot, the key is to listen to your body and consult with health professionals to find what truly energises a person.

So next time such reaches for a morning boost, what should be considered is this: looking for a quick spark or a sustained glow? The answer might just redefine anyone’s daily ritual.

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Meiza Nigeria