Why Garlic Is Good For You

There are many health benefits of garlic. In addition to being rich in antioxidants, Vitamin C, and minerals, garlic also stimulates the production of nitric oxide, a chemical that relaxes blood vessels and dilates them. This may support healthy blood flow and blood pressure. However, garlic may also have other effects on the body. Here are a few of these benefits. Using garlic as a supplement to your diet is a great way to start reaping these benefits.

Allicin

Research shows that garlic supplements can help lower cholesterol levels and keep blood pressure within healthy ranges. Garlic supplements may also improve blood vessel health, improve muscle recovery after exercise, and promote healthy immune function. Some studies suggest that allicin may also lower blood pressure and keep atherosclerosis at bay. A recent study of high-blood-pressure adults showed a significant drop in systolic blood pressure when compared to placebo-treated individuals.

Vitamin C

Garlic has numerous medicinal properties, including a modest boost in your daily dose of Vitamin C. It is a powerful antioxidant, which protects our cells from oxidative stress, which accelerates the aging process and increases your risk of cancer. In addition to its antibacterial and antiviral properties, garlic is rich in manganese, a mineral important to our bone and skin health. Consuming garlic on a regular basis can help reduce the risk of certain diseases, including colon cancer and heart disease.

Antioxidants

Antioxidants in garlic are known to have numerous health benefits. Recent research conducted by Queen’s University suggests that allicin, a compound found in garlic, may be the world’s most potent antioxidant. While common antioxidants like vitamin C and lutein also help stop the effects of radicals, this garlic compound is thought to be even more potent. Researchers from Queen’s investigated the decomposition products of garlic and found that a synthetic version of allicin produced acid when it reacts with the free radicals in the body.

Minerals

Garlic is an important source of sulfur compounds and manganese. These compounds are very beneficial to the cardiovascular system. It is best consumed raw, but cooking garlic reduces its vitamin and mineral content. Shortening cooking time may preserve the vitamin C in garlic. Moreover, garlic contains high levels of vitamin K and copper, which help in maintaining the health of bones and teeth. In addition, it also contains significant amounts of selenium, which helps the body process proteins and carbohydrates.

Cardiovascular health

The benefits of garlic for cardiovascular health have been proven by clinical studies. The benefits of garlic are noted in lower levels of triglycerides and cholesterol in the blood. However, these studies used garlic that was raw, at high doses. This is why garlic is so beneficial for heart health if taken as a supplement or eaten regularly. Garlic helps detoxify the body of heavy metals, which may worsen heart health. Pollution is a major contributor to toxins in the environment.

Arthritis

Garlic is a powerful anti-inflammatory, and many studies have shown that it can reduce pain and inflammation in joints affected by arthritis. Its primary ingredient, allicin, inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines like interleukins. This is one of the reasons why garlic is an effective treatment for arthritis. Additionally, garlic contains anti-oxidant compounds, such as allyl and allicin, that can help prevent oxidative damage in the joints.

Cancer prevention

Various studies show that eating garlic daily can reduce the risk of certain types of cancer. One clove a day is recommended. Garlic contains phytonutrients that fight cancer. Allicin, an antioxidant that is present in garlic, cuts off a cancer cell’s blood supply. Without a blood supply, the cancer cannot grow. This property makes garlic an excellent cancer prevention agent. However, the use of garlic is not a substitute for a healthy diet.