Growing up, the oozing sensational feeling of consuming garlic made me hate it so much. For a plant to smell so bad after consumption got me wondering if at all it would have any health benefit (as such bad breath would certainly not be a health benefit) though I was once given garlic to chew sometime when I had a cough in my teenage years.
Ever since I avoided garlic as a whole and meals prepared with garlic (whether little or not) wasn’t my favourite. Funny how I got arrested bumping into this friend of mine whom I had to speak to for almost an hour despite the oozing garlic smell coming out from his mouth.
Though he changed my perception a bit about garlic with the little knowledge he shared of the health benefits of consuming this *** and trust me a little further research I did is what’s making me share this amazing facts today.
Garlic – a member of the lily or Allium family of which onion, leeks and shallots are included is known for its amazing health benefits. Also called the stinky rose by a few has been used to treat various medical conditions.
Health Benefits
- Garlic is known to be nutritious by its contents which include: manganese, Vitamin B6 and Vitamin C. Despite all its nutrients, it is known to be very low in calories.
- Garlic is also rich in antioxidants that supports the body’s protective mechanism against oxidative damage.
- Garlic can be used in combating certain illnesses. Its supplementation helps to prevent flu and common cold and other common illnesses.
- Garlic also aids in dealing with cough.
- Garlic helps in reducing total and LDL cholesterol, especially in those who have high cholesterol.
- Consumption of garlic helps in reducing risks of high blood pressure and also help manage its cases too.
- Garlic can also improve your physical performance.
- Garlic serves as a detoxifier. It also aids in reducing lead toxicity.
- Garlic also serves as a natural cooking ingredient. It spices up our meal and gives us the needed nutrients for the improvement of our overall health.
Also have in mind that there are some downsides to garlic.
Bad breath – You could try brushing your teeth after consuming too much garlic to avoid discomforts.
Allergies – Some people are allergic to garlic and therefore should either avoid consuming too much or either find a way to deal with it.
When taking any blood thinning medication as a result of bleeding disorders, consult your doctor before consuming garlic.
The best way to consume garlic is either raw or to crush and cut, then leave it out for a while before adding to recipies.
