Even though some people think garlic is an acquired taste, there is no doubt that garlic packs a lot of health benefits. Here are seven reasons you should load up on this tasty pungent herb. These health benefits are sure worth popping a breath mint after every garlic-heavy meal!
Garlic is loaded with Antioxidants
Antioxidants protect our cells from damage caused by free radicals: unstable molecules that can harm the body. Although garlic contains a long list of these compounds, here are the most prominent:
Allicin
Allicin is a sulfur-containing compound responsible for garlic’s pungent smell and taste. It has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have shown that allicin can reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, which may help prevent chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.
Quercetin
Quercetin is a flavonoid antioxidant that is abundant in garlic. It possesses anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Studies have also shown that quercetin may help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Vitamin C
Garlic is also a good source of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy skin, bones, and immune systems. Vitamin C also helps protect the body against harmful free radicals, and studies have shown that it may reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and arthritis.
Selenium
Selenium is a trace mineral that is essential for our health. Garlic is a good source of selenium, a potent antioxidant that helps protect the body against oxidative stress and inflammation. Studies have also shown that selenium may reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, including prostate, lung, and colorectal cancer.
S-allyl cysteine
S-allyl cysteine is an inflammation-fighting compound that is unique to garlic. It forms when garlic is crushed or chopped. Studies have shown that S-allyl cysteine may help reduce cholesterol levels, lower blood pressure, and prevent heart disease.
Garlic helps treat nausea and bloating
Garlic has natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help soothe the stomach and reduce nausea and bloating. Inflammation in the digestive tract can cause various digestive issues, including nausea, bloating, and diarrhea. Garlic’s anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce this inflammation, leading to a more comfortable and smoother digestion process.
Moreover, garlic’s antibacterial properties can help reduce the growth of harmful bacteria in the gut, which can cause various digestive problems. Garlic can help promote the growth of healthy gut bacteria, which play a key role in optimal digestion and overall health.
One way to use garlic for nausea is by making garlic tea. Crush a few garlic cloves and steep them in hot water for several minutes. Strain the garlic and drink the tea slowly to help calm your stomach. Garlic tea can help reduce nausea by soothing the digestive tract and reducing inflammation.
Garlic can also ease bloating. One way to do this is by incorporating garlic into your meals. Add more garlic to your diet by including it in soups, stews, and stir-fries to help improve digestion and reduce bloating. It is also a very welcome seasoning in marinades and sauces.
Another way to use garlic for bloating is by making garlic and ginger tea. Ginger is another natural remedy for bloating that has anti-inflammatory properties. Crush a few cloves of garlic and a small piece of ginger, and steep them in hot water for several minutes. Strain the tea and drink to help reduce bloating.
Garlic can be used to treat Morning Sickness
Garlic has some pretty impressive natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. This means it can help soothe your stomach and reduce inflammation in your digestive system. Garlic can also help promote the growth of healthy gut bacteria, aiding digestion and reducing the risk of nausea and bloating that often goes with morning sickness and pregnancy.
You can easily incorporate garlic into your diet just by adding it to your meals. Garlic is a versatile ingredient that is used in everything from soups and stews to stir-fries and salads. It also makes for a great seasoning ingredient in marinades and sauces.
If you’re not a big fan of the taste of garlic, you can try making garlic tea instead. Crush a few cloves and steep them in hot water for a few minutes. Strain out the garlic and sip the tea slowly to help calm your stomach.
You can also take garlic supplements. These come in capsule or tablet form and can be taken daily. Be careful, though. Speaking with your healthcare provider before taking any supplements during pregnancy, including garlic supplements.
While garlic is generally considered safe during pregnancy, it’s important to use it in moderation. Eating too much garlic can cause heartburn, indigestion, and other digestive issues, worsening morning sickness. It’s also important to speak with your healthcare provider before using garlic to treat morning sickness, as they can advise you on the appropriate dosage and any potential risks or interactions.
Additionally, if you’re planning to use garlic supplements, it’s important to choose a reputable brand and read the label carefully. Some supplements may contain additional ingredients that could be harmful during pregnancy.
Garlic soothes muscle pain and soreness
Our muscles can become damaged or inflamed when we engage in physical activity or exercise. This can result in pain, stiffness, and soreness, making it difficult to move and carry out daily tasks. The good news is that garlic contains anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate this pain and soreness.
Garlic contains allicin, which is responsible for its anti-inflammatory traits. Allicin is released when garlic is crushed or chopped, and it has been shown to inhibit the production of prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that contribute to inflammation in the body. By reducing inflammation, allicin helps to alleviate muscle pain and soreness.
In addition to allicin, garlic contains other compounds that contribute to its anti-inflammatory qualities. These include diallyl disulfide, S-allyl cysteine, and ajoene. Diallyl disulfide has been shown to reduce inflammation and pain in animal studies. In contrast, S-allyl cysteine has been found to inhibit the activity of certain enzymes that contribute to inflammation.
Conversely, Ajoene has been found to have both anti-inflammatory and analgesic (pain-relieving) effects. In one study, ajoene significantly reduced pain and inflammation in rats with induced arthritis. While further research is needed to confirm these effects in humans, these findings are promising.
To tap garlic’s muscle-soothing properties, you only need to add more garlic to your diet. You can also apply it topically. Garlic oil can be applied directly to the skin to help alleviate muscle pain and soreness. To make garlic oil, simply crush a few cloves and mix it with a carrier oil, such as coconut or olive oil. Massage the oil onto the affected area and leave it on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off. This can be done once or twice a day for the best results.
Lastly, garlic supplements are another option for those looking to incorporate garlic into their routine. Garlic supplements are available in capsule or tablet form and can be found at most health food stores. However, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider before taking any supplements, as they may interact with certain medications or have other potential side effects.
Garlic can improve overall joint health
Our joints are made up of bones, cartilage, ligaments, and fluid-filled sacs called bursae. These components work together to allow for smooth, pain-free movement. However, factors such as injury, infection, and age-related wear and tear can cause inflammation in the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and limited mobility.
Allicin has been found to inhibit the production of certain enzymes that contribute to inflammation in the body. By reducing inflammation, allicin helps to alleviate joint pain and stiffness.
In addition to allicin, garlic also contains other compounds that contribute to its inflammation-suppressing qualities. These include diallyl disulfide, S-allyl cysteine, and ajoene. Diallyl disulfide has been shown to reduce inflammation and pain in animal studies, while S-allyl cysteine has been found to inhibit the activity of certain enzymes that contribute to inflammation.
Ajoene, on the other hand, has been found to have both anti-inflammatory and analgesic (pain-relieving) effects. In one study, ajoene was found to significantly reduce pain and inflammation in rats with induced arthritis.
Just like treating muscle pain and soreness, you can access garlic’s soothing properties by either eating more of it or using topical garlic oil.
Garlic can help you manage indigestion better
Indigestion, also known as dyspepsia, is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by symptoms such as bloating, gas, nausea, and abdominal discomfort. There are many factors that can contribute to indigestion, including stress, dietary habits, and underlying medical conditions.
Garlic can help treat indigestion through its anti-inflammatory effect. Inflammation is your body’s natural feedback to injury or infection. However, chronic inflammation may lead to various health problems, including digestive issues such as indigestion.
Garlic contains several compounds that have anti-inflammatory qualities. Among the most well-known is allicin, which is released when garlic is crushed or chopped. Allicin has been found to inhibit the production of certain enzymes that contribute to inflammation in the body. By reducing inflammation in the digestive tract, garlic can help alleviate symptoms of indigestion.
In addition to allicin, garlic contains other compounds contributing to its inflammation-fighting effects. These include diallyl disulfide, S-allyl cysteine, and ajoene. Diallyl disulfide helps reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the digestive tract. But, S-allyl cysteine protects the lining of the stomach from damage.
Ajoene appears to have both anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. This compound can inhibit the growth of Helicobacter pylori, a bacteria that can contribute to indigestion and other digestive issues. By reducing inflammation and fighting off harmful bacteria, ajoene can help improve digestive health and alleviate symptoms of indigestion.
You must add more garlic to your meals to promote its health benefits. If you need a more concentrated form of garlic, try garlic supplements.
Garlic lessens the pain of menstrual cramps
One common reason for menstrual cramping is inflammation. Garlic contains several compounds that combat inflammation. Chief among these is allicin, released when garlic is crushed or chopped. Allicin has been found to inhibit the production of certain enzymes that contribute to inflammation in the body. By reducing inflammation in the reproductive system, garlic can help alleviate the pain and severity of menstrual cramps.
In addition to allicin, garlic contains other compounds that contribute to its anti-inflammatory qualities. These include diallyl disulfide, S-allyl cysteine, and ajoene. Diallyl disulfide reduces inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. S-allyl cysteine helps regulate hormone levels, which can contribute to the severity of menstrual cramps.
Ajoene has both anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. This compound also cuts down the growth of harmful bacteria and viruses, which can contribute to menstrual cramps. By reducing inflammation and fighting off harmful bacteria and viruses, ajoene can help improve reproductive health and alleviate the pain and severity of menstrual cramps.
The final Word on Garlic’s Health-Boosting Effects
Sure, garlic might not give you the freshest breath. But what it lacks in terms of pleasant scent, it more than makes up for when it comes to your health. From its inflammation-fighting qualities to its gut health-boosting properties, this “stinking rose” of an herb sure packs quite a bit of a punch. Tapping its health benefits is also very easy: adding a few more tablespoons of garlic to your meals’ ingredient list.