Garlic has long been considered a healthy food. It is often used in folk medicine—both raw and dried—to treat various ailments and boost the immune system. Many people wonder whether they should eat garlic regularly, and what happens if they do. We'll try to answer these questions in this article.
HowWhat are the beneficial and medicinal properties of garlic due to?
Garlic is a member of the onion family. The edible part is the bulb with cloves, which are eaten both dry and raw. This plant is grown in many countries around the world. For a long time, garlic was used exclusively as a medicinal herb; its use in food began much later.
All of garlic's beneficial properties stem from its high sulfur content. The most beneficial sulfur compound, allicin, is unstable and only present in fresh, chopped garlic. Dried garlic retains diallyl disulfide and s-allylcysteine, compounds that have powerful beneficial effects on the human body.
Garlic is low in calories, yet it packs a powerful punch. It contains a wealth of nutrients, including:
- manganese;
- vitamins B6 and C;
- selenium;
- fiber;
- vitamin B1;
- calcium and potassium;
- copper;
- iron;
- phosphorus.
It also contains other beneficial nutrients in small amounts that have a complex effect on the human body, enhancing its protective functions. Garlic has anti-inflammatory properties, strengthens the immune system, lowers blood pressure, reduces cholesterol levels, and reduces the risk of Alzheimer's disease and senile dementia.
Why eat garlic?
Scientific studies have proven that regular garlic consumption boosts immunity and makes the body more resistant to various diseases. Whenever possible, it's best to eat garlic fresh, as it contains more beneficial nutrients.
Garlic reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease and lowers and normalizes blood pressure. According to research, people with hypertension should eat four fresh garlic cloves daily or take an equivalent amount of garlic extract.
Moreover, this vegetable helps lower bad cholesterol levels in the blood and removes heavy metals from the body. Large amounts of garlic have been proven to be as effective as some medications.
Garlic is beneficial for children and the elderly; it reduces bone loss, strengthens bones, and helps prevent certain diseases (such as osteoarthritis). Garlic is also recommended for women during menopause. The beneficial substances contained in the vegetable slow the decline of estrogen levels.
Garlic should be included in your diet to boost your immune system. It strengthens the body and helps protect against various viral infections.
This vegetable is easy to incorporate into your diet, thanks to its distinctive flavor. Garlic is often used as a seasoning for various dishes and in various sauces. Garlic is now readily available—fresh, powdered, and included in all-purpose seasonings. There's also garlic oil, which is used in salads.
It's worth noting that some conditions require garlic consumption in limited quantities or even completely avoided. For example, it should be avoided if you are taking blood-thinning medications.
If you have any medical conditions, consult your doctor before consuming garlic, but if you eat it in small amounts, it will definitely not cause any harm and will only bring benefits.