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Real talk: Though ginger root has all kinds of health benefits, ginger beer is basically just regular old soda. That being said, there are some types of ginger beer that are better for you than others.
“The more natural ginger—meaning actual ginger root, not ginger flavoring—the better,” says dietitian Suzanne Dixon, RD. “You dont necessarily need a lot of natural ginger for health benefit, but if youre using the product ‘medicinally, to soothe an upset stomach, for example, more natural ginger is better.”
How do you tell if theres actually natural ginger in your soda? Dixon recommends looking for a cloudy beer with visible pieces of ginger floating around. “If a ginger beer is completely homogenous in color and texture and appears a pale, yellow, 100 percent clear liquid, thats usually more of a ginger ale, not a ginger beer,” she says. (Ginger ales typically use ginger flavor, not the real deal.)
Plus, because beers with more of that natural rooty goodness also pack more spicy zing, they tend to work better in drink recipes (boozy or not!).
Of course, lots of ginger beers are just as loaded with sugar as the rest of the soda aisle, so keep an eye on those nutrition facts and look for options labeled low-sugar if youre watching the sweet stuff.
Here, Dixon and other dietitians share the best ginger beers on the market right now: 1
Spindrift Sparkling Ginger Beer Beverage 4
“Among the more mass-produced (vs. the boutique brands), this one is higher in sugar,” says Dixon. “However, it wins on he ingredient list: sparkling water, fresh ginger juice, cane sugar, and fresh lemon juice.”
While many similar beverages contain either citric or tartaric acid (both preservatives), Spindrifts spin on ginger beer does not. It also packs a night bright, lemony flavor!
Per serving: 120 cal, 0 g fat, 29 g carbs, 28g sugar, 0 mg sodium, 0 g fiber, 0 g protein5
Reed’s Zero Sugar EXTRA Ginger Beer 3
Dietitian Maya Feller, RD digs the latest ginger beer from Reeds—their first sugar-free option. “Not only does the high amount of real ginger taste great, but it’s also enough for you to reap the functional benefits that ginger provides,” she says.
Sweetened with erythritol, stevia, and monk fruit, this ginger beer is a great way to reap the benefits of ginger without sacrificing an ounce of taste.
Per serving: 0 cal, 0.2 g fat, 18 g carbs (all from erythritol), 0 g sugar, 70 mg sodium, <1 g fiber, 0 g proteinAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below4
Is Ginger Ale Good for You? Benefits, Types, and Potential Side Effects
FAQ
Can ginger beer be healthy?
Which ginger beer has real ginger?
Which ginger beer is good?
What is the healthiest ginger?
What is a good ginger beer?
Overall, this ginger beer from Q is wonderfully spicy and not very sweet. It is perfect for ginger fanatics and would stand out when mixed into these ginger beer cocktails. Most ginger beers are made with just sugar, ginger and water. Reed’s Craft Ginger Beer goes the extra mile and adds more flavors that pair so well with spicy ginger.
Ginger beer vs Ginger ale: Which is healthier?
Ginger beer is generally non-alcoholic or low in alcohol, while ginger ale is basically a carbonated soda. Ginger beer should be considered healthier for a few reasons. First, it is fermented, and fermented foods and drinks are known to contain beneficial compounds. Second, ginger beer actually contains ginger, while ginger ale doesn’t necessarily contain any actual ginger. This means that ginger beer contains all of the health benefits of ginger, while ginger ale doesn’t. Finally, ginger ale can contain a high level of sugar, and so can ginger beer, so if you are going to consume either one, make sure to enjoy them in moderation.
Is ginger beer healthy?
Dazzle your taste buds with these standout ginger beer options. When it comes to ginger beer, opting for brands that avoid high fructose corn syrup and use healthier alternatives like cane sugar, honey, and agave nectar is a wise choice. Healthier ginger beers offer a cleaner and more authentic taste while being kinder to your body.
Is Q a good ginger beer?
“I like it!” Overall, this ginger beer from Q is wonderfully spicy and not very sweet. It is perfect for ginger fanatics and would stand out when mixed into these ginger beer cocktails. Most ginger beers are made with just sugar, ginger and water.