Garlic has been known for its broad range of health benefits. Whether in topical form, or tablet form, garlic has made its way into the supplement industry, and for a good reason; it does boast of great skin benefits. Here are six researched health benefits of garlic.
1. Fighting cancer
Many foods are said to be beneficial when it comes to cancer-fighting and prevention. Garlic, however, has an arsenal of research backing its efficacy in helping with cancer treatment. This study found that a component called diallyl trisulfide (DATS) extracted from garlic could be an anticancer compound for skin cancer after testing it on melanoma. Another study backed these findings and concluded that garlic potentially a good anti-tumor agent against melanoma.
2. Heart Disease prevention
Garlic can play a role in heart disease prevention in more than one way. First of all, it has been found to decrease bad cholesterol, which is a risk factor for heart disease. In addition to this, garlic also decreases high blood pressure, which is another risk factor for heart disease.
3. Boosting immunity
If you’re looking for a natural cure for the cold and flu, you have found it. Garlic has been found to decrease the cases of the common cold by 63% in this study. To reap those benefits, eat a few raw garlic cloves if you’re up to it, or simply add a few cloves of garlic to your hot soup.
4. Hair and skin
Who knew that the pungent smell of garlic could carry beauty secrets. In addition to providing partial protection against UVB rays when included in the diet, ingredients found in garlic also help manage and treat skin condition such as psoriasis, keloid scars, and fungal infections. Another study found that garlic gel significantly improved the results of treatment in alopecia patients.
5. Anti-aging
Garlic is quite the magic ingredient when it comes to the skin. In addition to its other skin benefits, garlic also fights to age in more than way. The first is through offering partial protection from UVB rays when ingested, and the second is more directly through helping skin cells regenerate, according to this study.
6. Weight control
With its strong aromatic flavor, garlic can transform the taste of almost any dish. Luckily, the rich flavor comes with few calories. Garlic contains only 42 calories per 28 grams and therefore gives you a ton of flavor at very low caloric cost. This is very beneficial to those trying to follow a healthy low-calorie diet as it provides a way to add flavor while adhering to their nutrition goals.
Conclusion
Garlic is probably one of the most beneficial foods out there, and unlike many healthy foods, it has the extra advantage of being delicious. Add a few garlic cloves to your soups, stews, sauces, pasta, dips, and pizzas and enjoy the health benefits and the great taste!
References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20459099
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20148706
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8169881
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8310001
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11697022
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24035939
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15659827
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21128712
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17314444
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7526077
