Is Ginger Ale Safe to Drink Every Day?

December 21, 2025 •

3 min read

Over 70% of the daily added sugar limit can be found in a single can of regular ginger ale, according to Healthline. Given this fact, many people question whether is ginger ale safe to drink every day, and the simple answer is no—especially when choosing commercially-produced varieties.

Quick Summary

Drinking commercially-produced ginger ale daily is generally not recommended due to high sugar content or potentially harmful artificial sweeteners. While real ginger offers benefits, most mass-market versions contain negligible amounts and are essentially soda, risking weight gain, dental issues, and other chronic health problems.

Key Points

Not Recommended for Daily Consumption: Most commercial ginger ale is high in sugar, similar to other sodas, making daily intake unhealthy.
Negligible Real Ginger: Mass-produced brands typically contain minimal or artificial ginger flavoring, offering few of the therapeutic benefits of real ginger root.
Health Risks of High Sugar: Excessive sugar intake from regular consumption can lead to weight gain, dental issues, and increased risk of type 2 diabetes.
Diet Versions Have Drawbacks: Diet ginger ale contains artificial sweeteners whose long-term health impacts are still debated and may affect gut bacteria.
Healthier Alternatives Exist: Opt for homemade ginger tea or water infused with real ginger to get the taste and benefits without the added sugar and additives.
Consider Health Conditions: Individuals with certain conditions like diabetes or those on blood thinners should be especially cautious with ginger and consult a doctor.
Read Labels Carefully: Always check the ingredient list for real ginger and high fructose corn syrup to make a more informed choice.

The Surprising Truth About Commercial Ginger Ale

Despite its reputation as a soothing tonic, most commercial ginger ale has more in common with other sugary soft drinks than with a health remedy. The therapeutic benefits are primarily derived from real ginger root, which is often present in minuscule amounts—if at all—in popular brands. A single 12-ounce can can contain over 30 grams of added sugar, representing a significant portion of the recommended daily limit. This high sugar load is the primary reason why daily consumption is discouraged by health experts.

The Health Risks of Daily Ginger Ale Consumption

Consistent, daily intake of sugary beverages like commercial ginger ale can lead to a host of health problems. These risks extend beyond simple weight gain and include more serious long-term conditions.

Blood Sugar Spikes and Diabetes Risk: The high sugar content can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels. Over time, this can contribute to insulin resistance and increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Weight Gain and Obesity: A high-calorie, high-sugar diet is a leading cause of weight gain and obesity, which in turn elevates the risk for heart disease and other chronic illnesses. Many commercial sodas, including ginger ale, are full of empty calories, offering no significant nutritional value.
Dental Concerns: The combination of sugar and carbonated acids can severely damage tooth enamel. Frequent exposure increases the risk of cavities and erosion.
Gastrointestinal Distress: The carbonation can cause bloating, gas, and stomach upset for some individuals. While some may find relief from nausea, others might find their symptoms exacerbated.
Hidden Additives: Beyond sugar, many ginger ales contain artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives that offer no health benefits.

What About Diet Ginger Ale?

Some opt for diet or zero-sugar versions to avoid the sugar issue, but these come with their own set of potential drawbacks. Diet ginger ales contain artificial sweeteners, and the research on their long-term health effects is still mixed and debated. Some studies suggest a link between certain nonnutritive sweeteners and metabolic issues, gut microbiome changes, and an increased risk of heart disease.

A Comparison: Commercial vs. Natural Ginger Ale


Feature	Commercial Ginger Ale (e.g., Canada Dry)	Traditional/Natural Ginger Ale (e.g., Craft Brands)
Ginger Content	Contains minimal or no real ginger; uses artificial flavorings.	Brewed with real ginger root and natural ingredients.
Sweetener	High Fructose Corn Syrup or other added sugars.	Often uses organic cane sugar or honey; lower overall sugar content.
Carbonation	Force-carbonated with injected CO2, leading to larger bubbles.	Naturally carbonated through fermentation, resulting in smaller, finer bubbles.
Processing	Highly processed with artificial colors and preservatives.	Less processed, often free from artificial additives.
Health Impact	Associated with risks of weight gain, diabetes, and dental issues.	Offers potential benefits from real ginger, but sugar content still needs moderation.

Healthier Alternatives to Daily Ginger Ale

If you enjoy the taste of ginger but want to avoid the pitfalls of daily soda consumption, several healthier options exist:

Homemade Ginger Tea: This is one of the simplest and healthiest options. Brew fresh ginger slices in hot water. Add a slice of lemon for extra flavor and a touch of honey if you desire sweetness. This provides the genuine benefits of ginger without added sugar or artificial ingredients.
Water Infused with Ginger and Other Fruits: For a refreshing, cold beverage, infuse water with thin slices of ginger, cucumber, and lemon. It's a flavorful, calorie-free alternative to sugary drinks.
Low-Sugar or Fermented Ginger Beer: Look for craft ginger beers or traditional, fermented versions that contain real ginger and are lower in sugar. Reading the label is key to finding a healthier option.

Conclusion: Consume in Moderation

While an occasional ginger ale is unlikely to cause harm for most people, making it a daily habit is not recommended due to the high sugar content and potential negative health effects. The potential digestive benefits are often minimal in mass-produced versions, and healthier, more effective alternatives like ginger tea are readily available. For those with pre-existing conditions, particularly diabetes or issues with blood clotting, consulting a healthcare provider before regular consumption is essential. The key to enjoying ginger ale responsibly is moderation and making informed choices about the specific product you consume.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance regarding your diet and health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most commercially available ginger ale contains very little, if any, real ginger. Many brands use artificial flavorings to mimic the taste of ginger, offering none of the root's actual health benefits.

While the myth persists, most commercial ginger ale is ineffective for an upset stomach. The high sugar content and carbonation can actually worsen gastrointestinal issues for some people. Real ginger tea is a far more effective remedy for nausea.

The risks of diet ginger ale are linked to artificial sweeteners. Some studies suggest these sweeteners may lead to metabolic issues and changes in gut bacteria, although the research is mixed and ongoing.

A standard 12-ounce can of commercial ginger ale typically contains over 30 grams of added sugar, which is a substantial portion of the recommended daily limit.

Yes, regular consumption of sugary ginger ale can contribute to weight gain due to its high-calorie and high-sugar content, which provides empty calories without nutritional value.

Individuals with diabetes, those sensitive to carbonation, people on low-sugar diets, and anyone taking blood-thinning medications should limit or avoid ginger ale. High concentrations of real ginger can also interact with certain medications.

Healthier alternatives include homemade ginger tea with fresh ginger, water infused with ginger and other fruits, or seeking out traditional, fermented ginger beers that use real ginger and have lower sugar content.