For years, ginger shots have been hailed as the ultimate superfood, brimming with immune-boosting properties that can aid weight loss and fitness.

Ginger shots have long been celebrated as a powerhouse superfood, packed with properties that not only bolster the immune system but also support weight management and fitness goals.

Despite their benefits, the high cost of pre-packaged ginger shots, which can run into several pounds per serving, makes them a pricey indulgence for many.

In response, Mackenzie ‘Mack’ Lee, a baker with a knack for creativity, has shared a simple, cost-effective ginger shot recipe on TikTok, claiming it effectively wards off sickness.

“I’m tired of seeing you spend money on store-bought wellness shots,” she exclaimed. “Let’s dive into making them ourselves.”

She began by chopping three cups of fresh ginger and 1/2 cups of fresh turmeric into smaller pieces. If fresh turmeric isn’t readily available, 3 tsp of turmeric powder can be used as a substitute.

“Nothing has to be even, you’re just cutting it so that it’s easier for your blender to mix it up. You don’t want to screw up your blade,” she advised before rinsing the ginger and turmeric. “Don’t worry about taking off the skins, we’re going to be blending it and putting it through a sieve later.”

She then used a salad spinner to dry the ginger and turmeric before adding them to her blender, along with a quartered lemon, skin and all.

“Make sure you take off the stickers. They do not add extra protein,” she quipped. “We’re also going to put some garlic, they go straight in [to the blender]” she detailed, before pouring 4-4.5 cups of water into the blender along with 3-5 cloves of garlic and 1/2 tsp of black pepper.

“If you’re adding turmeric, you cannot skip [the pepper]. Black pepper activates the turmeric,” she explained.

She also incorporated 1 tbsp of cayenne pepper, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, as well as 1 apple cut in half to lend a sweet touch to the shots. The next step is to blend all the ingredients until smooth, followed by straining.

“I’m gonna use a nut milk bag, but if you don’t have that you can use just a regular strainer – nothing fancy,” she advised. “I’m gonna be using gloves because this stuff stains real bad.”

She strains the mixture through the milk bag into a bowl to catch any lumps, ensuring the shot is as smooth as possible. Once strained, the concoction can be poured into a bottle and stored in the fridge for up to 10 days, or frozen. Discussing the benefits of these shots.

Mack stated: “These can reduce inflammation, improve your gut health, reduce blood sugar and cholesterol, boost your immune system, and they help with skin health, which is the main reason I use them. And it’s a really great way to create good habits at the beginning of your year.”

Discussing how to utilise the leftover pulp, Mack suggested: “If you don’t want to waste the pulp, you can freeze it in cubes and add to your smoothies.

“If you’d like to use it for tea, take 1-2 tbsp and steep it in a cup of hot water. I add honey and lemon to mine! Or compost it!”

Does ginger shots really help prevent illnesses?

Ginger is known for its high antioxidant content, which can help shield your cells from damage by free radicals. Certain elements of ginger, such as gingerol, possess antimicrobial and antiviral properties that could bolster the immune system and fend off illnesses.

Traditionally, ginger has been used to aid digestion and alleviate gastrointestinal discomfort or nausea. Some research suggests that ginger may help regulate blood sugar levels and enhance lipid profiles, potentially benefiting individuals with diabetes or cardiovascular issues.

However, it’s crucial to remember that while ginger offers these potential benefits, consuming it as a shot doesn’t necessarily make it more effective than other methods, such as incorporating it into food or tea. Moreover, the concentrated nature of ginger shots might lead to gastrointestinal discomfort in some people, particularly if consumed excessively.

For any health concerns, we always recommend consulting your doctor.