Garlic is an herb widely used as a food spice and as a natural medicine, bringing the following health benefits:
- C ombater viruses, bacteria and fungi, as it is rich in allicin;
- Fight colon cancer due to the presence of allyl sulphides;
- Prevent atherosclerosis by reducing high cholesterol and triglycerides;
- Protect the heart by lowering cholesterol;
- Decrease blood pressure and prevent thrombosis by facilitating blood circulation;
- Act as an anti-inflammatory ;
- Improve asthma symptoms and facilitate breathing.
To get its benefits, one should consume from medium to 3 cloves of garlic a day. One tip to increase its beneficial power is to chop or knead the garlic and let it rest for 10 minutes before using it as this increases the amount of allicin, which is primarily responsible for its properties.
Nutrition information and how to use it
The following table shows the nutritional composition in 100 g of garlic.
| Quantity in 100 g fresh garlic | |||
| Energy: 113 kcal | |||
| Protein | 7 g | Calcium | 14 mg |
| Carbohydrate | 23.9 g | Potassium | 535 mg |
| Fat | 0.2 g | Phosphor | 14 mg |
| Fibers | 4.3 g | Allicin | 225 mg |
Garlic can be used to season meats, pasta, salads and to make sauces and pates. In addition, tea or garlic water can also be used to get its benefits from lowering cholesterol and protecting the heart. Here's how to do it here.
How to buy and how to store
At the time of purchase, one should prefer round, unbleached, full-bodied and well-shaped garlic heads with garlic cloves tied together firmly, avoiding those that are loose, soft, and withered.
In addition, to preserve the garlic longer and avoid mold, it should be stored in a cool, dry and slightly airy place.
Side effects and contraindications
Excessive consumption of garlic can cause digestive problems, cramps, gas, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, kidney pain and dizziness.
In addition, the consumption of raw garlic as a natural remedy is contraindicated for newborns, during surgery healing and in cases of low blood pressure, stomach pain, hemorrhages and use of blood thinning medicines.
Cream of Garlic Cream for Meat
Ingredients
- 1 cup of milk
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 pinch of salt, parsley and oregano
- Olive oil
Method of preparation
Beat in the blender the milk, the garlic, the salt, the parsley and the oregano. Then add the olive oil gradually until you find the cream point of the recipe. You can use this cream to accompany barbecue meats or to make garlic bread.
Eggplant, flaxseed and artichoke can also be used to protect the heart, so see more home remedies for lowering cholesterol.
