Table of Contents
Many of us have probably had the kitchen-ready remedies our grandma used for various diseases or injuries. The remedies, more commonly referred to as ‘gharelu nuskhe’ may not be as popular today, but they continue to inspire modern medicine. From the soothing mix of honey and lemon to warm turmeric milk it has all been a part of our childhood memories. Even though times have changed, these home remedies continue to work wonders, one such natural ingredient that has numerous health advantages is garlic.Â
Garlic is a plant of the onion family and is known for its distinctive taste and numerous health benefits. Eating raw garlic is associated with health benefits including, an immunity boost, reducing the risk of diseases, improving gut health, helping fight infections, and more.Â
Garlic is something people either love or hate, given their strong taste. Garlic is packed with essential nutrients and some findings also suggest that it has been used to treat illness for thousands of years. Garlic is low in calories and high in antimicrobial properties, and there are also researches that suggest that garlic reduces the risk of certain types of cancer. The scientific name for garlic is ‘allium sativum’, it is commonly used in homoeopathic medicines to help with conditions like cough, increasing weight, irregular sleep, and more.
Also Read: 10 Places Where Hidden Sugars Sneak into Your Diet
The table below shows the nutritional facts of 1 raw garlic clove:Â
Nutrients | Values |
Energy (kcal) | 4.45 g |
Protein | 0.19 g |
Sugars | 0 g |
Carbohydrates | 1 g |
Vitamin C | 0.09 mg |
Calcium | 5.4 mg |
Iron | 0.05 mg |
Magnesium | 0.75 mg |
Potassium | 11 mg |
Zinc | 0.03 mg |
Fiber | 0.06 g |
Sodium | 0.51 mg |
Garlic is known for its immunity-boosting properties, aiding digestion, supporting heart health, and more. The low-calorie vegetable is packed with a range of nutrients essential for maintaining overall well-being. Some of the top health benefits of eating garlic include:
Also Read: Balanced Diet Chart
Garlic is a very popular culinary ingredient used for its flavour and aroma that help enhance the taste of various types of dishes. Additionally, garlic is a good source of nutrients and has numerous health benefits. Here’s how to include garlic in your diet:
Method | Description |
Raw garlic in the morning | Crush 1 – 2 cloves of garlic and swallow with water. The method helps with immunity, detox & blood pressure control. |
Garlic-infused oil | Lightly cook the garlic cloves in olive oil and further use it for salad dressing or cooking. |
Add to salads | Use raw garlic cloves in salads or drizzle garlic oil over sauted vegetables. |
Roast garlic | Roast a whole garlic bulb and have it on toast, mashed potatoes, or with roasted vegetables. |
Add to soups & broths | Add crushed or minced garlic into soups, dals, broths, etc. It helps enhance taste & soothing benefits. |
Stir fries & curries | Use saute chopped or minced garlic in oil and add it to vegetables or meats to enhance flavour. |
Also Read: Dangers of Excessive Heat
Garlic cloves should be consumed in moderation, 1-2 cloves daily are adequate and may provide health benefits. There are several ways one can eat raw garlic, from chewing it directly to swallowing it with water, all have health benefits. Given the strong taste of garlic, choose the way that suits you the best. Plus, raw garlic also retains more allicin making it more beneficial for health. On the other side people with GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) should keep the garlic intake to the minimum to avoid heartburn. Also, there are certain compounds in garlic that may irritate the digestive tract which can cause a burning sensation or discomfort, during this situation, consider lowering the intake.Â
Read More: Benefits & Side Effects of Muskmelon
Can eating garlic help with colds and flu?
Yes, eating garlic can help with colds and flu.
Is raw garlic more beneficial than cooked garlic?
Yes, raw garlic is more beneficial than cooked garlic.
Does garlic increase testosterone?
Yes, some studies suggest that garlic increases testosterone.Â
Does garlic lower cholesterol?
Yes, garlic may lower the levels of cholesterol, particularly bad cholesterol.Â
How much garlic should I eat daily for health benefits?
Generally, 1-2 cloves of raw garlic is recommended for potential health benefits.Â