Daily ginger supplementation improves plasma cholesterol efflux capacity and reduces oxidative stress in healthy adults: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial

Abstract

Background and purpose

Ginger may influence lipoprotein metabolism and macrophage reverse cholesterol transport. This study evaluated the effects of ginger supplementation on ex vivo plasma cholesterol efflux capacity (CEC).

Materials and methods

In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial, thirty-five healthy participants received either a placebo followed by dried ginger powder capsules (1500 mg/day) or the reverse sequence. Each intervention lasted six weeks, separated by a four-week washout period. Apo B-depleted plasma was assessed for CEC. Plasma paraoxonase arylesterase activity, malondialdehyde (MDA), lipid profiles, body weight, and blood pressure were also measured.

Results

Ginger supplementation significantly increased the CEC of apoB-depleted plasma, demonstrating a significant treatment-by-period interaction (p = 0.001). Plasma MDA levels decreased following incubation with an oxidizing agent (copper) during the ginger period compared to placebo (treatment × period, p = 0.029). No significant effects were observed on paraoxonase arylesterase activity, lipid and lipoprotein levels, body weight, or blood pressure. When both intervention periods were combined, reductions in plasma CEC were negatively correlated with reductions in plasma MDA (Spearman r = −0.267; p = 0.027).

Conclusion

Short-term supplementation with dried ginger powder enhanced ex vivo plasma CEC. In addition, ginger supplementation improved the antioxidant response following an oxidant challenge. These findings suggest that ginger may promote reverse cholesterol transport and enhance resistance to oxidative stress, two mechanisms that are critically involved in the prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.