Its many compounds include antioxidants and allicin, which has antibacterial properties, researchers report.
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While scientists investigate the effects of diet on health, they discover that more and more everyday foods offer benefits that go far beyond flavoring food.
Garlic, an ingredient that is part of almost all types of cuisine, has emerged as one of these super foods.
Part of the allium family, which includes onions and leeks, garlic has several compounds that give it its effects to improve health, in addition to its strong aroma.
According to very comprehensive research, garlic can apparently improve immunity and heart health, perhaps help prevent besides fighting certain types of cancer, and reduce triglycerides and total cholesterol.
Its many compounds include antioxidants and allicin, which has antibacterial properties, the researchers report.
Some of these benefits can be observed after eating just one meal with raw garlic. But in general there is enough evidence to eat at least half a tooth every day.
To obtain the greatest benefits, first chop, slice or chop fresh garlic, as this activates a process that makes the compounds more potent. Wait 5 to 10 minutes before eating or using it on a plate, especially if you are going to mix it with a very acidic food, such as lemon juice.
Here are some easy ways to use raw garlic:
Mix with avocado to make guacamole. Mix it with the dressing of the Caesar salad. Make it puree with chickpeas for a hummus, or with white beans to make a sauce. But you do not always have to eat it raw. As long as you prepare the garlic according to the suggestions and add it to the end of the recipe, you can cook it and retain its nutritional value.
