Garlic is one of the most commonly used spices. It is known for its immense health benefits. Also, garlic is known for its distinct flavor and pungent smell. It belongs to onion family. Its cloves are used in cooking several dishes or consumed raw. The thin skin of cloves and roots attached to bulb are not edible. Garlic has a sulphur bearing compound called Allicin that gives medicinal qualities to it. Read through the below lines to know more about garlic health benefits and nutritional values.
Nutritional Values of Garlic:
Following are the nutritional values of garlic that are present in 100 grams:
- Vitamin C – 13 mg
- Riboflavin – 0.23 mg
- Thiamine – 0.06 mg
- Protein – 6.3 g
- Carbohydrates – 20.8 g
- Zinc – 1.93 mg
- Calcium – 30 mg
- Phosphorus – 310 mg
- Manganese – 0.86 mg
- Iron – 1.2 mg
- Copper – 0.63 mg
Health Benefits of Garlic:
The properties and nutrients of garlic affect the following health conditions if taken regularly:
Cough and cold:
It is said that consuming a garlic clove is a best remedy to treat cold caused by allergies, cough and cold. This is so because garlic is a good source of vitamin C and has antibacterial and antiviral properties. It also reduces upper respiratory tract infections.
Antioxidant:
Garlic fights and protects from the development of free radicals. This property is exhibited by aged garlic that has extremely powerful antioxidant effects.
Anti-cancer:
Researches have proved that garlic helps in dealing with cancer. The compounds in garlic help white blood cells in defending body against cancerous cells and slow down the growth and development of cancerous cells.
Infections:
The anti-parasitic, antifungal, antiviral and antibacterial properties and allicin of garlic make it useful in treating several infections. This is an important medicinal use of garlic.
Strengthens immune system:
Consuming garlic regularly enhances immunity. Also, it increases white blood cells production and boosts functionality of immune system.
Regulates blood pressure and cholesterol:
Regular consumption of garlic aids in lowering cholesterol and blood pressure levels.
Treats impotence:
Garlic’s aphrodisiac properties help in treating impotence. It has been used since ancient times for treating impotence. An enzyme, nitric oxide synthase aids in obtaining erection.
Diabetes management:
Regular intake of garlic increases insulin secretion in the body for regulating blood sugar levels in diabetes patients.
Enhances brain functioning:
Garlic improves brain functionality and prevents degeneration of frontal lobes of brain.
Toothaches:
Application of crushed garlic on affected gum and tooth gives instant relief due to its analgesic and antibacterial properties.
These are a few garlic health benefits. You can use garlic and enjoy its health benefits. Also, it has some side effects so be careful. Do not consume too much.
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