Garlic for your wellbeing!
Table of Contents
1. Unleash the ally
Garlic contains, among other things, sulfur compounds, enzymes, amino acids, and mineral components. Its characteristic taste and aroma are given to it by sulfur-containing compounds. Among these, we distinguish allicin, a biologically active substance that exhibits a number of antibacterial and antifungal properties. Allicin is produced only after cutting or crushing garlic. Raw garlic has the most health benefits. However, due to its characteristic taste and odor properties, raw garlic may be unpleasant to eat. Therefore, it is worth combining garlic with other products such as mint, parsley stems, thyme, which neutralize the unpleasant odor. To increase the health benefits of garlic in cooked dishes, it can be sprinkled with lemon juice. This significantly increases the activity of the enzyme allinase, which converts inactive alliin into allicin. Instead of frying garlic at the beginning of preparing a dish, it is better to press it through a press at the end of cooking or eat it raw.2. Overcome the infection!
Garlic is often referred to as a natural antibiotic. Many scientists emphasize the positive impact of garlic on the immune system of the body. Consuming garlic can strengthen the immune system, thus reducing the risk of influenza or other infections. If someone is already sick, garlic can help shorten the duration of symptoms due to its strong antibacterial activity. As previously mentioned, extracts from garlic containing allyl have antifungal properties. In scientific studies, it has been found that garlic can inhibit the growth of fungi, bacteria, and parasites. These properties make garlic a versatile remedy for respiratory and digestive problems. It is also worth noting that garlic has strong antioxidant properties, which can affect the activity of enzymes dependent on S-glutathione transferase. These properties can play an important role in the treatment of cancer. However, it should be noted that garlic can have interactions with other medications, so it should not be taken together with antiviral or fever-reducing medications, as this can lead to liver damage.3. Garlic against obesity and strokes
Recent studies show that the sulfur compounds in garlic, which exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, can effectively protect against the development of fat cells, or adipocytes. Currently, obesity is considered a chronic inflammatory disease that leads to many complications, including atherosclerosis. This is because it produces many hormones and inflammatory substances, and is not just an energy store, as was once believed. Sulfur compounds also act as antioxidants, reducing oxidative stress caused by free radicals. The health benefits of garlic, specifically allicin, can be observed in cases of cardiovascular disorders. Garlic can prevent the development of atherosclerosis, thrombosis, and hypertension. It helps to lower the level of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. The substance contained in garlic, ajoene, is a natural agent with anti-clotting properties, reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke.4. Something for athletes
Garlic was one of the initial substances utilized by Olympic athletes in ancient Greece to enhance performance. The mechanism of garlic involves improving oxygen transport in the body by influencing iron metabolism. Iron is crucial for the production of hemoglobin in red blood cells, which binds with oxygen. Research indicates that garlic may also decrease fatigue after exertion and lower peak levels.5. Medication for cancer?
The compounds present in garlic exhibit potent anti-cancer properties. They aid in combating free radicals that contribute to cell damage and their mutations into cancer cells. Research has also demonstrated garlic's ability to activate the molecule that protects against cancer. Garlic's bactericidal properties have a positive impact on the fight against the bacterium Helicobacter pylori, which is involved in the development of inflammation and ulcers and contributes to the development of stomach cancer. It also shields against the harmful effects of heavy metals, which can potentially be carcinogenic.