Ginger water, also called ginger tea, is produced by boiling a small piece of fresh ginger root in water, straining it into a glass or pitcher, and then adding a touch of sugar and lemon. Let it cool to room temperature before drinking, and put the rest in the fridge for later consumption.

The benefits of ginger water include, but are not limited to:

A better digestion. A cup of ginger tea after each meal helps the stomach process a meal, especially a heavy and/or spicy meal, which prevents heartburn.

It sweetens the breath naturally, without having to resort to artificial breath mints.

Swish the last sip of ginger water around in the mouth to help prevent dental caries and to keep the tongue a nice healthy pink.

Regular use of ginger water is being researched as a possible help in keeping diabetes in check and helping dieters stay on the straight and narrow nutritional path. That slight tingling sensation in the mouth after a cup of ginger tea shows that the ginger is working to satisfy food cravings and keeping sugar levels down.

Ginger water helps to prevent muscle cramps after exercise. If this has been a problem, take a cup of ginger water right after a workout to bring the natural relaxing properties of ginger to your tensed up muscles quickly and naturally.