Garlic: Proven Health Benefits & How to Use It
Garlic (Allium sativum) is one of nature’s most powerful medicinal foods, used for both culinary and therapeutic purposes for thousands of years.
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Top 7 Science-Backed Benefits of Garlic
1. Boosts Immunity
- Contains allicin (potent antimicrobial compound)
- Reduces severity of colds and flu
- May enhance white blood cell function
2. Heart Health Protector
- Helps lower blood pressure (vasodilatory effect)
- Reduces LDL cholesterol by 10-15%
- Prevents plaque buildup in arteries
3. Natural Antibiotic
- Effective against bacteria, viruses and fungi
- May help fight antibiotic-resistant infections
- Traditionally used for wound disinfection
4. Cancer Prevention Potential
- Sulfur compounds may inhibit tumor growth
- Associated with lower stomach/colon cancer risk
- N-acetylcysteine helps detoxify carcinogens
5. Anti-Inflammatory Effects
- Reduces markers of inflammation (CRP)
- May benefit arthritis sufferers
- Helps with respiratory inflammation
6. Blood Sugar Regulation
- Improves insulin sensitivity
- May lower fasting blood glucose
- Particularly beneficial for type 2 diabetics
7. Detoxification Support
- Activates liver detox enzymes
- Helps eliminate heavy metals (especially with cilantro)
- Rich in sulfur for phase II detox
Active Compounds
- Allicin (forms when crushed)
- Ajoene
- S-allyl cysteine
- Diallyl disulfide
- Quercetin
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How to Use Garlic for Maximum Benefits
Medicinal Preparations
- Raw garlic: 1-2 cloves daily (crush and wait 10 mins before eating)
- Garlic honey: Immune-boosting syrup
- Garlic oil: For ear infections (2 drops)
- Fermented garlic: Black garlic has enhanced antioxidants
Culinary Uses
- Add at end of cooking to preserve allicin
- Roast whole heads for spread
- Make garlic-infused olive oil
- Use in soups, sauces and marinades
Precautions & Side Effects
- May thin blood (caution before surgery)
- Can cause heartburn in some
- Possible allergic reactions
- May interact with HIV/saquinavir meds
- Start with small amounts if sensitive
Nutrition Facts (Per 3 cloves raw)
- Calories: 13 kcal
- Manganese: 8% DV
- Vitamin B6: 6% DV
- Vitamin C: 5% DV
- Selenium: 4% DV
- Fiber: 0.6g
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