Cook with Garlic to Boost Your Health!
The pungent smell of garlic is certain to awaken the weakest of senses. As the aroma seems to endlessly seep out of one’s pores after eating it, the benefits can outweigh the scent. This April, get ready to celebrate National Garlic Month by learning about the health benefits of garlic!
Garlic is a member of the onion family which includes leeks, shallots, and scallions. As they have been highly regarded for their versatility and flavor in a variety of cuisines, their health promoting benefits often get washed away with their odor. Recent research has revealed that garlic acts as an antioxidant, produces immune boosting effects and decreases risk of cancer and heart disease. Multiple studies conducted by the American Institute for Cancer Research support garlic’s role in cancer prevention of the stomach, colon, prostate, and bladder.
Allicin is the powerful compound in garlic that is responsible for the aroma and antioxidant activity of the vegetable. As allicin decomposes, it quickly reacts with the free radicals of the body to produce effects comparable to the antioxidant activity of vitamin E. Studies have also indicated garlic may play a role in preventing DNA damage, as well as removing toxins from blood cells.
Roasting or sautéing garlic produces a spicy, yet sweet flavor that can be used as a seasoning in almost any meal. Simply peel, chop, and simmer. Use a sauté pan under medium heat; add chopped garlic; and let cook until golden brown. Throw in your favorite veggies, create a rustic tomato sauce, or spread on a piece of focaccia for a mouth-watering meal!
Garlic can add savory flavor to so many recipes, and now that you are more aware of the wonderful antioxidant powers it has, make an extra effort to use it in tonight’s dinner! Your body will thank you…even if your breath does not!
Your turn to take action: Will you add garlic into your cooking, and if so, how?
I’ve used garlic for cooking, juicing, and eating raw in salads! It helped me with Candida overgrowth and healing from a broken leg, too!
Thanks for the blog!
That’s great Ava. The many benefits of garlic….thanks for sharing!
I love garlic. I use it most every day. 🙂
Yes, I too use it quite often. Thanks for commenting Mary Pat.
I use garlic a lot when I cook. I love the smell and taste of it. Definitely a plus factor that is has health benefits. People should really begin using garlic more often.
I agree, Rehana. It has many health benefits, but people shy away from it because of the strong odor. I love it, and use it quite often in my cooking.
Good news, Garlic promotes the overall well-being of the heart and immune systems and helps maintain healthy blood circulation. The active component in garlic is the sulfur compound called allicin. Allicin is powerful as an antibiotic and a effective agent that helps the body to inhibit the ability of germs to grow and reproduce.