For thousands of years, people have praised garlic, a plant in the Allium family, for its culinary and therapeutic uses. Garlic is a useful supplement to any diet because recent studies have validated several of its health advantages. Here are a few of the main health advantages of garlic.
1. Support for the Immune System
Garlic has a reputation for strengthening the immune system. Aged garlic extract (AGE) has been shown to improve immune function, which may lessen the intensity and length of typical cold and flu symptoms. According to a research, people who took AGE supplements missed fewer days of work or school because they were sick.
2. Control of Blood Pressure
One important risk factor for heart disease is high blood pressure. Supplemental garlic has been demonstrated to reduce blood pressure in hypertensive patients, sometimes equaling the efficacy of prescription drugs but with fewer adverse effects. The main cause of this action is thought to be sulfur compounds that are created when garlic is crushed or diced.
3. Control of Cholesterol
Low-density lipoprotein (LDL), sometimes known as "bad" cholesterol, may be especially reduced by garlic. According to research, people with slightly increased cholesterol levels who regularly eat garlic may see a 10% reduction in LDL levels, which would improve their heart health.
4. Properties of Antioxidants
Antioxidants found in garlic help the body fight against oxidative stress. Free radical-induced oxidative damage is associated with aging and a number of illnesses, including Alzheimer's. Garlic's antioxidants may promote general brain health and guard against cognitive loss.
5. Reduction of Inflammation
Garlic's sulfur components have anti-inflammatory qualities as well, which may help to lessen inflammation all over the body. Numerous medical conditions, such as arthritis and heart disease, are linked to chronic inflammation.
6. Controlling Weight
Garlic may help with weight management by encouraging fat loss and reducing waist circumference, according to certain research. Garlic may help aid in weight loss if it is included in a balanced diet.
7. Protection of the Liver
According to research, garlic has hepatoprotective qualities, which means it can help shield the liver from harm brought on by chemicals like ethanol, which are present in alcoholic drinks. This shows that garlic may help reduce alcoholic liver disease, but additional research is required.
8. Enhancement of Bone Health
Early research suggests that garlic may help women's bone health by raising their estrogen levels, which may enhance bone strength and density.
In conclusion, adding garlic to your diet can have a variety of health advantages, from cardiovascular and immune system support to antioxidant defense and even help with weight loss.