Joy Onuorah

Garlic may just be one of the most satisfying aromas and flavors used in cuisines around the globe. But it can also boast some pretty impressive health benefits. Here are seven reasons to incorporate more of this mouthwatering veggie into your eating routine:

Medicinal properties

Garlic has been used throughout ancient history for its health benefits and medicinal properties. The health benefits are a result of the sulfur compounds formed when a garlic clove is chopped, crushed, or chewed. It has been used to treat several common illnesses, such as common colds.

High nutritional value

Garlic is highly nutritious, containing several essential nutrients, and low in calories. One clove of raw garlic contains manganese, Vitamin C, selenium, and small amounts of fiber, calcium, copper, phosphorus, iron, Vitamin B1, Vitamin B6, and potassium.

Boast immune system

Garlic has been found to boost the function of the immune system, reducing the occurrence and intensity of common ailments like the flu and other systemic or skin infections.

Reduces blood pressure

Active compounds in garlic can reduce blood pressure (hypertension), reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases like heart attacks and strokes.

Reduces blood sugar

Garlic reduces pre-meal blood sugar level fluctuations in people with or without diabetes. It is effective in diabetic patients especially if it is taken for more than 3 months.

Reduces cholesterol level

Garlic can lower the levels of cholesterol, which reduces the risk of heart disease.

Rich in antioxidants

Antioxidants reduce oxidative damage in the body tissue, which slows the process of aging and protects the body. The antioxidants in garlic combined with its benefits on blood pressure and cholesterol protect the heart and brain. It reduces the risk of brain diseases like dementia and Alzheimer’s.

Improves physical performance

Garlic can reduce fatigue, improving athletic performance, and physical capacity. It was used in ancient times to improve the physical performance of laborers and improve athletic performance in Olympic athletes in ancient Greece.

Detoxification of heavy metals from the body

At high doses, garlic has been found to protect against the organs from heavy metal toxicity due to the sulfur compounds.