Ginger is a good source of life-sustaining vitamins. Relatively small amounts of ginger are consumed compared to other foods like meats, whole grains, and vegetables. Because of this, the quantity of vitamins obtained through ginger is small but significant. Vitamins B1, B3, B6, C, E, and folate in ginger each have their own unique role in helping the body in growth, digestion, elimination, and overall vitality. With the exception of the vitamins our body creates on its own (for example, some B vitamins, vitamin K, etc.), most vitamins can be obtained only through food.
Ginger contains both water-soluble and fat-soluble vitamins. The water-soluble ones are mainly the B and C vitamins. As their names suggest, they dissolve in water. They are not stored in the body and, once ingested, have only a matter of hours to act before they are eliminated. It is very important to consume vitamins B and C on a daily basis. All the others are fat-soluble vitamins and are stored in the body’s fat tissues. These vitamins can be mobilized as needed. Because there is a ready supply (assuming adequate nutritional intake), the body can go longer periods without having to obtain these from the diet. Ginger consumed as part of a nutrient-dense diet helps provide these vitamins in sufficient amounts to perform their functions as described below.
 
1. VITAMIN B1
Also known as thiamine, this vitamin is needed to enhance circulation, help in the formation of blood, and prevent the accumulation of fatty deposits on arterial walls. It also plays a role in the formation of the myelin sheath, which is the cover surrounding some nerves that is essential for them to fire properly. If sufficient levels of vitamin B1 are lacking, the nerves are more sensitive to inflammation.
Our digestion also suffers when we have insufficient B1. Thiamine is needed in the formation of hydrochloric acid, the substance that breaks down our food. It helps maintain proper muscle tone in the stomach and intestines. This assists in moving the food through the digestive process. Evidence shows that a deficiency of vitamin B1 can result in gastrointestinal disorders, irregular heartbeat, loss of some nervous tissue response, depression, and fatigue.
 
2. VITAMIN B3
This vitamin has several names but is most commonly known as niacin. It is involved in more than fifty metabolic reactions in the body and is essential in the breakdown of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Like vitamin B1, niacin is needed in the production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach. It further aids the digestive system through its involvement in the secretion of bile and stomach fluids.
Niacin also plays a role in the cardiovascular system by stimulating circulation and reducing cholesterol levels. It is very important in maintaining a healthy nervous system and normal brain function and has been used to treat neurologic problems. A deficiency of vitamin B3 can result in mental confusion, skin disorders, loss of appetite, fatigue, and oral problems including canker sores, sore tongue, and swelling of the mouth.
 
3. VITAMIN B6
Vitamin B6 or pyridoxine is readily absorbed from the small intestine and is involved in more bodily functions than almost any other nutrient. One of its major roles is to help maintain the body’s sodium and potassium balance needed for proper electrical functioning of the heart, nerves, and musculoskeletal system. It can balance fluids, making it important for those suffering from water retention. Like the other B vitamins above, pyridoxine is needed for the production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach. However, vitamin B6 is not just important in the breakdown of food but also in the absorption of fats and protein, too. This vitamin plays a positive role in heart disease, cancer immunity, and depression. A deficiency of vitamin B6 can result in insomnia, irritability, anemia, acne, and morning sickness in pregnant women.
 
4. VITAMIN C
Vitamin C is often seen in cosmetic products. No wonder, as one of its most important functions is in the formation and maintenance of collagen. Collagen gives our bodies support and structure. It is a main component of skin, hair, and nails, and as we lose collagen, the signs of aging set in. Collagen supports the body’s healing processes and can speed wound healing after injury or surgery.
Vitamin C also protects the body from degenerative processes through its antioxidant function. It stimulates the immune system and can help prevent and treat infections and disease. Even external influences that cause inflammation like viral, bacterial, and fungal infections can be treated with vitamin C. Not to be outdone by the other vitamins, it, too, plays a role in preventing heart disease by reducing plaque formation on arterial walls and subsequent blood clots. Symptoms of bleeding gums, slow healing of wounds, urinary tract infections, general weakness, excessive hair loss, and aching bones and joints may indicate a deficiency of vitamin C.
 
5. VITAMIN E
There are actually eight antioxidant compounds that make up vitamin E. As an antioxidant, this vitamin helps combat free radical damage to tissues from pollution, chemical exposure, and processed foods. The tissues most sensitive to oxidation from free radicals are the skin, liver, breasts, testes, and eyes.
Vitamin E is very important in preventing heart disease. It decreases blood clotting and raises “good” cholesterol levels. Taken internally or externally, vitamin E is commonly used to heal dry skin, repair burns or abrasions, or even fade scars. A deficiency of vitamin E could lead to heart disease, premature aging, diarrhea, irritability, or weakness.
 
6. FOLATES
Even though folate is a water-soluble vitamin, a nine-month supply can be stored in the liver. It is used in red blood cell production and is significant in preventing anemia. And it’s not only important for red blood cells: folate is needed for the growth and reproduction of all cells. This is why it is essential for pregnant women or those trying to become pregnant to take folic acid supplements. It ensures a ready supply during fetal development when there is rapid cell multiplication. With respect to the infant’s growth, folate plays a crucial role in the development of the nervous system and can prevent neural tube defects.
Just as vital is folate’s role in reducing atherosclerosis, strengthening immunity, and combating depression and anxiety. Folate deficiency can result in bleeding gums, paleness, diarrhea, insomnia, irritability, and fatigue.