Garlic is an amazing spice that has many health benefits. It lowers cholesterol and improves insulin sensitivity. Garlic also has an amazing aroma. Here are seven reasons why you should start eating more garlic. And don’t worry about garlic breath – there are ways to deal with it. Check out the more garlic nutritional benefits here.
Lowers cholesterol
A new study shows that garlic can lower your cholesterol levels. The researchers studied 192 adults with LDL levels of 140 milligrams per deciliter of blood. A healthy level is less than 100 milligrams. The researchers found that the compounds in garlic, allicin, s-allyl-cysteine, and s-propyl-cysteine, inhibit the synthesis of cholesterol in test tubes and animal models.
Increases nitric oxide
Nitric oxide is a colorless gas that plays a vital role in overall health. Consuming foods rich in nitrates has also been linked to lowering blood pressure. The consumption of beet juice can boost nitric oxide levels by as much as 21% in 45 minutes.
Improves insulin sensitivity
Exercise promotes weight loss and improves insulin sensitivity, two important factors in managing blood sugar levels. Exercise also mitigates the inflammatory response associated with obesity, which contributes to systemic insulin resistance. A study conducted in mice found that mice fed on a high-fat diet (HFD) gained an average of 6.8 g in 4 weeks compared to mice fed chow. After four weeks, the mice were divided into four groups: control mice, HFD mice, and obese mice.
Reduces inflammation
Garlic is one of the most common spices, and it contains powerful anti-inflammatory properties. The compound allicin helps limit the effects of free radicals and pro-inflammatory proteins in the body. This can help reduce inflammation, as well as protect cartilage from damage from arthritis. To make the most of garlic’s benefits, try to buy fresh garlic, since preservatives can weaken the compounds in the garlic, which reduces their ability to fight inflammation.
Helps with asthma
Garlic has anti-inflammatory properties and is effective against many asthma conditions. It has been used to treat respiratory illnesses such as asthma, bronchitis, and pneumonia. Garlic helps with asthma by increasing air flow in the lungs. It can be taken orally or as an inhalation in liquid form.
Improves exercise performance
Caffeine is a popular beverage that increases physical performance and improves mental functioning. It is used as a performance enhancer by the U.S. Special Forces, and over 90% of the population consumes caffeine on a regular basis. Caffeine has a number of physiological effects and is absorbed into the bloodstream rapidly. After being consumed, caffeine levels reach a peak within 30 to 120 minutes and remain high for 3 to 4 hours. It affects cells throughout the body, including muscle, fat, and the central nervous system.
