Garlic has a bad reputation because of its pungent taste and smell, but we want to tell you about its benefits, informs Ukr.Media.
Garlic has been used to treat diseases and ailments for thousands of years. According to some sources, Hippocrates prescribed garlic for various ailments, and early Olympic athletes used it as the first “performance enhancer.” Garlic can also be used as a salt substitute if you're trying to cut back on salt but still want to eat savory foods.
So how can garlic help us today?
Some people believe that eating garlic can help heal colds faster, reduce cold sores, help treat acne, get rid of mosquitoes, and even improve hair texture. However, none of these benefits have been scientifically proven.
Some researchers studying garlic have found encouraging associations between eating garlic and positive outcomes. Here are some possible benefits that have been scientifically proven.
Garlic makes you more attractive
Yes, you guessed it. Garlic can cause bad breath, but studies have shown that regular consumption of it has a long-term effect on the attractiveness of body odor.
Accordingly, study participants smelled better when they regularly consumed garlic, compared to how they smelled when they didn't eat it. But be careful: it's best not to consume garlic right before a date.
Helps to lose weight
Garlic is a real diet activator. In fact, garlic contains vitamin B6, which stimulates metabolism, and therefore fat burning. For reference: 100 g of garlic contains 0.38 mg of vitamin B6 – this is more than most other vegetables.
Strengthens the immune system
Garlic has long been known to have a positive effect on the immune system. It contains important vitamins, beneficial oils and amino acids that are important for the body. Garlic also contains allicin, a substance known for its anti-inflammatory effects. Therefore, regular consumption of garlic is recommended, especially during the cold months of the year.
Protects the skin
The ingredients in garlic act as a natural sunscreen and protect the skin from harmful UV rays. In addition, eating garlic increases the production of natural collagen and elastin, which make the skin more elastic and smooth.
Helps reduce blood pressure
If you have high blood pressure, you should consult your doctor. In addition to your prescribed treatment, you may want to ask your doctor if you can combine your treatment with a natural way to lower high blood pressure using garlic.
The fact is that garlic dilates blood vessels and thereby lowers blood pressure. In addition, regular consumption of garlic can help lower cholesterol levels, which, in turn, reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease.
How to use garlic
Garlic is best consumed raw. Some of the valuable ingredients are lost when heated. If this seems too intense for you to begin with, you can try adding it to your dishes first.
There is a tip on how to eat garlic with health benefits, but without the consequences in the form of bad breath. A clove of garlic is cut into slices and washed down with water without chewing. As a result, the garlic goes to its intended purpose, and bad breath is either absent or much more tolerable.
Who should not eat garlic?
Garlic is a common allergy trigger. Symptoms range from mild sneezing to a life-threatening allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis.
If you suspect you have a garlic allergy, you should see an allergist for a proper diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan.
