4 Great Reasons To Add More Garlic To Your Diet
Garlic has been praised for its delicious taste and wonderful health benefits throughout the ages, all around the world. Even before modern scientific studies confirmed the positive attributes of garlic, it was relied on as a healthy supplement to any diet, especially in the Mediterranean area, a region of the world renowned for the overall health of its people. Here are just four of garlic’s many nutritious properties.
It’s High In Nutrients, But Low In Calories
Just one ounce of garlic contains 23% of the Recommended Daily Amount (RDA) of Manganese, a mineral important to maintaining bone strength. The same amount of garlic also contains 17% RDA of Vitamin B6, as well as 15% RDA of Vitamin C. The plant also contains healthy amounts of selenium, fiber, copper, calcium, potassium, iron, and phosphorus. All of these important nutrients come with just 42 calories, so eat up!
It Can Reduce Your Chances Of Catching A Cold
Many doctors and nutritionists recommend taking a garlic pill supplement daily to combat instances of the common cold. Scientific studies have proven that garlic can reduce the chance of catching a cold by as much as 63%. In addition, even if you do get a cold, garlic pills reduce the length of cold and flu symptoms. If you’re prone to catching colds, consider adding more garlic to your diet.
It Can Stabilize Blood Pressure And Cholesterol Levels
Garlic has been shown to reduce levels of blood pressure at a rate that’s as effective as certain high blood pressure medications. Those who suffer from hypertension are recommended to try increasing their consumption of garlic to higher amounts for these potential benefits. Garlic can also work to lower cholesterol levels, due to its ability to lower levels of LDL, commonly referred to as the “bad” cholesterol (HDL is the “good” cholesterol). Overall, garlic is a fantastic nutrient for improving heart health.
It Can Work To Decrease The Risk Of Alzheimer’s And Dementia
Consuming garlic means you’re also consuming a healthy dose of antioxidants, which can reduce oxidation in the blood. This leads to lower blood pressure levels, which can in turn prevent common brain conditions such as Alzheimer’s and dementia.
Short of having a strong scent that can translate to bad breath, garlic is nothing but good for you. It’s pretty easy to add garlic into many of your favorite dishes, from pasta to sauces and soups. If you really are worried about the strong scent, or just don’t care for the taste of garlic, try a daily garlic supplement, and chances are high that at the very least, you’ll notice a decrease in the amount of colds you get every year.