If you’re like most people, you probably only think about garlic as a seasoning for Italian dishes or as a means to ward off vampires. But garlic is so much more than that – it’s actually a superfood that is full of health benefits.

What is Garlic?

Garlic is a member of the onion family, and it’s been used for both culinary and medicinal purposes for thousands of years. Garlic is a bulbous plant that is native to Central Asia and northeastern Iran, but it is now grown all over the world.

It has a strong, pungent flavor that comes from sulfur compounds that are released when the clove is crushed or chopped.

What are the Health Benefits of Garlic?

Garlic is packed with nutrients that can help keep you healthy and ward off disease. Here are just a few of the health benefits that garlic can provide:.

1. Garlic Can Lower Your Risk of Heart Disease

Heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide, but studies have shown that garlic can help lower your risk of developing heart disease.

Garlic can lower your blood pressure, lower your cholesterol levels, and reduce your risk of developing atherosclerosis.

2. Garlic Can Boost Your Immune System

Garlic is full of antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage and boost your immune system. Garlic also has antibacterial and antiviral properties, which can help your body fight off infections.

3. Garlic Can Help You Fight Cancer

Studies have shown that garlic can help reduce your risk of developing certain types of cancer, including stomach cancer and colorectal cancer. Garlic contains compounds that can help stop cancer cells from growing and spreading.

4. Garlic Can Improve Your Brain Function

Garlic contains a compound called allicin, which can help improve your brain function. Allicin can increase blood flow to the brain, which can help improve memory and cognitive function.

5. Garlic Can Help You Lose Weight

Garlic can help you lose weight by speeding up your metabolism and helping your body burn more calories. Garlic can also help you feel full longer, which can help you eat less and lose weight.

How Can You Incorporate Garlic Into Your Diet?

Garlic is easy to add to your diet – you can use it to season almost any dish. Here are just a few ways that you can incorporate garlic into your meals:.

1. Roast It

Roasted garlic is a great way to add flavor to a dish without overpowering it. Simply cut off the top of a garlic bulb, drizzle it with olive oil, wrap it in foil, and bake it in the oven until it’s soft and tender.

2. Crush It

Crushing garlic cloves releases their flavor and aroma. You can crush garlic cloves with a garlic press or with the flat side of a knife blade.

3. Sauté It

Garlic is a great addition to sautéed vegetables or stir-fry dishes. Simply sauté the garlic in olive oil until it’s fragrant and lightly browned, then add your vegetables or protein.

4. Pair It With Other Superfoods

Garlic pairs well with other superfoods, like spinach, kale, and broccoli. Try making a garlic and spinach omelette for breakfast or a garlic and kale salad for lunch.

Conclusion

Garlic is a superfood that you should be eating more of. It’s packed with nutrients that can help keep you healthy and ward off disease. Incorporate garlic into your diet today and start reaping the benefits.