For centuries garlic has been a common ingredient in kitchens all around the world. It is a simple bulb with a strong smell. Garlic has a wealth of health advantages in addition to its capacity to enhance your favourite recipes. After being used for millennia in traditional medicine, garlic’s remarkable effects on human health are finally being recognised by contemporary research.
Dietician Ekta Singhwal of the Ujala Cygnus Group of Hospitals described how garlic strengthens heart health, lowers inflammation, and strengthens the immune system.
Garlic’s Nutritional Profile
According to Singhwal, 100 grams of raw garlic have the following nutritional profile.
- Calories: 149 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 33.06 grams
- Dietary Fibre: 2.1 grams
- Sugars: 1 grams
- Protein: 6.36 grams
- Fat: 0.5 grams
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin B6
- Manganese
- Selenium
- Fibre
- Calcium
- Copper
- Potassium
- Phosphorus
- Iron
Garlic’s Health Benefits
- Heart Health: Studies have shown that garlic can help protect the heart by decreasing blood pressure, cholesterol, and avoiding blood clots, all of which can lessen the risk of heart disease and stroke.
- Immunity: Allicin, a chemical found in garlic, has antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal qualities that assist to strengthen the immune system and fend off infections.
- Anti-inflammatory: Sulphur compounds found in garlic have anti-inflammatory qualities that may help lessen bodily inflammation and ease the symptoms of ailments like arthritis.
- Digestive Health: Studies indicate that the antibacterial qualities of garlic can improve gut health, stimulate digestion, and lower the risk of gastrointestinal tract infections.
- Cancer Prevention: Because garlic has antioxidant qualities and can stop the formation of cancer cells, some research suggests that eating garlic may lower the chance of developing some cancers, especially those of the digestive system.
- Antioxidant Properties: Antioxidants, which are abundant in garlic, assist the body combat free radicals, oxidative stress, and the risk of chronic illnesses.
Can People with Diabetes Eat Garlic?
Diabetes sufferers can eat garlic, according to Singhwal. “It might enhance insulin sensitivity, control blood sugar levels, and lower the risk of diabetes-related cardiovascular problems,” she continued.
For individualised dietary guidance, it is crucial to keep an eye on blood sugar levels and speak with a healthcare provider.
Is Garlic Good for Expectant Mothers?
According to Singhwal, garlic is typically regarded as safe for pregnant women to eat in moderation. It offers vital minerals that promote general health, such as manganese, vitamin B6, and vitamin C.
She did, however, caution against taking garlic pills or consuming a lot of raw garlic when pregnant owing to possible negative consequences.
Things to Consider Regarding Allergies:
Garlic allergies can cause symptoms including skin rashes, itching, or gastrointestinal distress in certain people. It is crucial to use caution, particularly in cases where allergic responses have previously occurred.
Odour: Some people have a strong body odour and breath stink when they consume garlic. Breath fresheners and proper dental care might help ease this discomfort.
Drug Interactions: Garlic may have negative effects on several drugs, including blood thinners and anti-HIV drugs. Seeking advice from a medical expert is crucial, particularly if you use medicine on a daily basis.
Truths and Myths
Myth 1: All illnesses may be cured by garlic.
Factual statement: Garlic possesses antibacterial qualities that aid in the battle against illnesses; nevertheless, it is not a cure-all and may still require medical attention.
Myth 2: You can quickly reduce cholesterol by eating raw garlic.
Factual statement: Although eating garlic may gradually decrease cholesterol, it is not a quick fix, and the effects may differ based on personal health circumstances and lifestyle choices.
Prepare to reveal the layers and allow garlic to occupy its rightful position in your diet!
