8 Health Benefits of Garlic
Garlic is not only a delicious ingredient used to add flavor to many dishes, but it’s also packed with numerous health benefits. Numerous studies have found that garlic can help to lower cholesterol, reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, and even fight cancer.
It has also been known to reduce blood pressure, improve digestion, boost the immune system, and aid in detoxification. All of these benefits can make it an important part of a healthy lifestyle.
Let’s explore the benefits of garlic in more detail.
1. Boosts Your Immune System
Garlic is well-known for its ability to help your immune system fight infections. It contains a compound called allicin, which has been shown to have antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties.
Additionally, garlic has been found to be a powerful antibiotic and can even help fight against drug-resistant bacteria.
2. May Helps Heart Health
Garlic is a superfood when it comes to heart health. It can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease. It does this by helping blood vessels relax, which makes it easier for blood to flow through them.
There is research showing that garlic also helps lower cholesterol levels. This can help prevent plaque from building up in your arteries and improve overall heart health.
3. Supports Skin Health
There’s no denying that garlic has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various skin problems. Thanks to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Applying garlic topically (directly on the skin) can help with conditions like acne, psoriasis, fungal infections, and even warts. Just be careful when using garlic on your skin, as it can cause irritation for some people.
4. Improves Digestion
Good digestion is essential for overall health. Garlic can help improve digestion by promoting the growth of good bacteria in your gut. These helpful bacteria assist in breaking down food and absorbing nutrients.
Eating garlic can also help reduce inflammation in the digestive system, which can help alleviate bloating, gas, and stomach pain.
5. Helps Prevent Cancer
Garlic contains several compounds that have been shown to have cancer-fighting properties. Some studies suggest that a diet high in garlic may help lower the risk of certain types of cancer, such as stomach, colon, and breast cancer.
While more research is needed to confirm these findings, adding garlic to your diet is a tasty way to potentially decrease your chance of cancer.
6. Supports Brain Health
Of course, garlic is packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help protect your brain. These substances work together to lower inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which can contribute to age-related cognitive decline.
Thus, by eating garlic regularly, you can support brain health and potentially reduce the risk of conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.
Also read: 6 Reasons to Eat a Garlic Clove a Day
7. Helps Detoxify Your Body
Believe it or not, garlic can help your body get rid of toxins. It contains compounds that help your liver to detoxify and remove harmful substances from your body.
This means that including garlic in your diet can help keep your liver healthy and functioning at its best.
8. Supports Bone Health
Garlic is good for your bones. It contains nutrients like manganese, vitamin B6, and vitamin C, which are essential for maintaining strong and healthy bones.
One study suggests that regularly consuming garlic can help decrease bone loss, especially in women.
Also read: 6 Reasons To Drink Garlic Tea
