The spice in question has been used for thousands of years in many parts of the world. In Ancient Greece, it was known for its antimicrobial properties, and today it is a key element in many dishes, giving dishes a special piquancy and at the same time protecting the body from various ailments.
The seasoning today is used in raw, cooked or powdered form. Some people don’t like the pungent taste of the spice, but you need to keep in mind that garlic (yes, that’s what we’ll be talking about!) protects the body from disease.
A Cleveland expert weighs in on whether garlic lowers blood pressure.
Garlic is known to be good for the heart. It lowers blood pressure and protects against increases in “bad” LDL cholesterol. At the same time, it helps prevent various forms of cancer as it contains ingredients with anti-cancer effects. Research has shown that it is also an aphrodisiac that increases libido.
Who doesn’t know garlic with its characteristic pungent smell and piquant taste. Who can resist the Greek favorite dish, tzatziki? This hot spice adds incredible flavor to dishes and is also extremely beneficial for health:
1. Strengthens the immune system
Chronic inflammation can damage your immune system. Studies examining the effects of garlic have shown that it helps reduce systemic inflammation and restore white blood cell levels. This is also reported study published in the Journal of Clinical and Translational Research. The study focused on allicin, a sulfur-containing compound found in foods such as onions and garlic that boosts the immune system.
In addition, a study published in the journal Trends in Food Science & Technology showed that due to organosulfur compounds, garlic may have an antiviral effect. Researchers believe that garlic helps prevent viruses from entering and multiplying in our cells.
2. Reduces cholesterol levels
According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, controlling cholesterol levels is important because high cholesterol levels increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke.
3. Lowers blood pressure
According to the aforementioned study published in the journal Antioxidants, garlic's effects on immune system health, as well as its ability to lower cholesterol levels, may also lower blood pressure. A study found that garlic may lower both systolic and diastolic blood pressure in people with metabolic syndrome – a group of diseases that increase the risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes.
4. Helps control sugar levels
Garlic may also help regulate blood sugar levels, especially in people with diabetes. A study published in the journal Primary Care Diabetes found that garlic was more effective than a placebo in reducing fasting blood glucose levels in people with diabetes.
5. Good for the intestines
You may have heard of probiotics—live bacteria that support gut health—but don't underestimate the power prebiotics. Prebiotics feed healthy bacteria in the gut, and garlic is a good source.. However, eating a lot of garlic can cause symptoms of digestive problems such as gas and bloating (for example, in people with irritable bowel syndrome).
Other benefits of garlic
Garlic is also a source antioxidants. According to a study published in the Journal of Experimental and Therapeutic Medicine, antioxidants in garlic may reduce neuroinflammation and support healthy brain function. In addition, a study published in the journal Nutrients found that elderly Chinese who consumed garlic lived longer than those who did not, and research has shown that it is also an aphrodisiac that increases sexual desire.
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