Ginger has been shown to lower blood pressure and improve circulation, which can be beneficial for some people. However, for people with heart conditions, this can be dangerous. Ginger can interact with certain medications used to treat heart conditions, such as blood thinners, and can increase the risk of bleeding. Additionally, ginger can cause arrhythmias in some people, which can be life-threatening. (1)
2. People with gallstones
Fresh ginger rhizome with sliced and green leaves isolated on white background.
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Ginger has been shown to stimulate the production of bile, which can help improve digestion. However, for people with gallstones, this can be problematic. Bile is produced in the liver and stored in the gallbladder. When the gallbladder is inflamed or has gallstones, the production of bile can be disrupted, leading to pain and discomfort. Ginger can exacerbate this condition by increasing the production of bile, which can cause further pain and discomfort. (2)
3. People with diabetes
Hands hold glucometer and medicine.
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Ginger has been shown to lower blood sugar levels, which can be beneficial for people with diabetes. However, ginger can be dangerous for people taking medications to lower their blood sugar levels. Ginger can interact with these medications and cause blood sugar levels to drop too low, leading to hypoglycemia.
“We know that ginger can affect your insulin levels … so it can interact with certain diabetes medications people are on; if you’re taking ginger supplementation and you are on diabetes medication, that can cause low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia,” says Rahaf Al Bochi, RD, a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and owner of Olive Tree Nutrition. (3)
4. Anyone experiencing severe side effects
Cup of hot ginger tea with ginger root and slices on gray background.
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While ginger is generally safe for most people, some people may experience severe side effects. These can include allergic reactions, such as hives or difficulty breathing, as well as gastrointestinal symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If you are experiencing severe side effects after consuming ginger, you should stop using it immediately and seek medical attention.
5. Possibly if You’re Pregnant
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The message regarding ginger and pregnancy is mixed. While some studies have shown that ginger can be safe and effective for treating morning sickness (4,5), other studies have raised concerns about the safety of high doses of ginger and ginger supplements during pregnancy. Some evidence indicates that ginger tea should not be consumed close to labor, as it may increase bleeding risk. Pregnant women with a history of miscarriages, vaginal bleeding, or blood clotting issues should also stop using ginger products(6).
