You know garlic as an odorous but flavorful addition to many
food dishes. But garlic cloves are packed with potential health benefits
because of their natural phytochemicals that may have positive effects on the
body. Although the herb can be a useful supplement for both genders, it may be
especially helpful for men at risk of certain chronic disorders, including
cardiovascular disease and prostate problems.
Cardiovascular Benefits
Several compounds in garlic are antioxidants that help the body
rid itself of unstable molecules called free radicals that form during
digestion or after exposure to toxins. Free radicals can raise your risk of
atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries, which over time can contribute
to coronary artery disease, a problem the American Heart Association says is
especially prevalent in men over 45. A 2010 review published in "Current
Pharmaceutical Design" that examined findings from 53 clinical trials with
various herbal remedies found that consuming garlic may help lower blood cholesterol.
High cholesterol levels also can contribute to atherosclerosis and coronary
artery disease. Experts at the University of Maryland Medical Center note that
garlic also has blood-thinning properties that slow clot formation, potentially
helping lower the risk of stroke and other circulatory problems.
Anti-Cancer Properties
Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center reports that
compounds in garlic may have significant anti-cancer properties, helping
protect you from some types of cancer, including stomach, colon and prostate. A
study published in the November 2002 issue of the "Journal of the National
Cancer Institute" included subjects with and without diagnosed cases of
prostate cancer and found that consumption of garlic was associated with a
significantly lower risk of developing the disease. These results are
promising, but studies that identify a direct link between compounds in garlic
and protection from prostate cancer are still needed to confirm this benefit.
Immune Booster
Garlic compounds may have positive effects on your immune system,
helping you ward off or recover more quickly from illness. A study published in
a 2001 issue of "Advances in Therapy" that included 46 healthy
subjects who took a garlic supplement or placebo found that those who consumed
garlic were less likely to develop the common cold and, if they did, were able
to recover more quickly than those in the placebo group. Memorial
Sloan-Kettering experts say garlic compounds are natural antibiotics that may
support immune function by stimulating cells called t-lymphocytes and
macrophages to increase in number and become more active, helping them fight
off potentially harmful pathogens.
Garlic Supplements
You can increase your intake of healthy garlic compounds by
consuming fresh, crushed garlic regularly or by taking garlic supplements.
These are available as powdered preparations of dried garlic or as aged,
odorless garlic extract, either in capsules or pills. Garlic supplements are
generally considered safe, although some products might cause bloating or
gastric upset. Garlic can interact with certain medicines, including
blood-thinners, anti-viral medications or other prescription drugs. Before
taking garlic, discuss its use as an herbal supplement with your doctor to
decide if it might be helpful for you.
What Does Eating Whole Garlic Do for
Your Body?
t’s
doubtful that lilies come to mind when eating garlic, but this odorous bulb is
a member of the lily family. For more than 5,000 years, people have eaten
garlic for medicinal purposes. In fact, 400 years ago, the Native American
Cherokees used garlic as a diuretic, a cure for deafness and a dewormer for
children. The health benefits of eating garlic continue today, and the
"Journal of Nutrition" says garlic helps reduce the risk of heart
disease, improves memory and lowers cholesterol.
Reduces Risk of Heart Disease
The antioxidants in
garlic reduce the damage done by free radicals that can cause heart disease and
cognitive loss. Eating garlic may also reduce blood pressure and inhibit
hardening of the arteries because it works as a blood thinner. Thinning of the
blood helps increase blood circulation and may prevent vascular damage that can
lead to heart disease and stroke.
Improves Cognitive Function
The increase in circulation that results from eating garlic may
help prevent dementia by protecting the brain from degenerative diseases.
Adding garlic to your meals can decrease inflammation and lower cholesterol,
helping to reduce the risk of brain cell injuries. Eating one whole garlic
clove each day can lower your cholesterol within four months, according to the
Huntington College of Health Services.
Strengthens Immune System
Eating raw or cooked garlic can boost your immune system,
fighting off colds and even cancer, especially colon, esophagus and stomach
cancers. If you catch a cold, eating garlic may decrease the time it takes to
get over the cold. Taking garlic supplements is not as effective in
strengthening the immune system as eating whole garlic cloves.
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