GARLIC -- 3 HEALTH TIPS FOR YOU RIGHT NOW
Research shows that garlic is, indeed, a powerful anti-cancer and pro-immune-health food.
It contains antioxidants that help protect against Alzheimer's and dementia.
It may also help reduce blood pressure, reduce "bad" LDL cholesterol, detoxify heavy metals in the body, and even help combat sickness such as the common cold.
However...
1) To enjoy maximum health benefits of garlic, choose
fresh garlic over bottled.
That's because "allicin" -- the powerful immune-boosting and cancer-fighting compound in garlic -- is most potent in fresh cloves.
Research out of Japan found that crushed garlic stored in water lost about half its allicin in 6 days, while crushed garlic stored in oil lost that much in under 3 hours!
2)
Don't buy garlic that smells too much like garlic.
That may sound counterintuitive, but it is the allicin in garlic that gives it the unique garlic smell.
And it is only created once the cloves have been damaged. That means if it smells very garlic-y, it's had some rough treatment and lost some potency.
Choose garlic that has minimal smell and is firm.
3)
Always cut, chop, or mash garlic for maximum health benefits (versus using the cloves whole.)
That's because when you damage garlic's cell walls, it enables the powerful sulfide compounds -- such as allicin -- to form.
In fact, it may be best to let the chopped garlic stand for about 15 minutes if you're going to cook it to fully develop the compounds before heat inactivates the enzymes involved in the process.
4) Consider trying some of
the other healthiest types of garlic.
Allium sativum, a.k.a. "culinary garlic," is the type you'll usually find in stores. And the good news is this type offers a high amount of health and healing properties.
However, do consider trying -- or growing -- purple and black garlic varieties, as they typically have the highest allicin content. (Note that they're also usually more pungent.)
Some of the varieties with the highest allicin content include Siberian, Romanian Red, Parvin, and Georgian Crystal.
You can find different varieties in some grocery stores, garlic specialty shops, and, of course, by searching online (as always, organic is highly recommended!)
5) Did you know that simply
SMELLING garlic can calm your nerves?
In studies done at Chicago's Smell and Taste Treatment and Research Foundation, it was found that the aroma and flavor of garlic can
reduce your stress levels as much as 39%!
In short, that's because it contains compounds that signal your nervous system to reduce production of stress hormones.
Simply slicing into garlic and inhaling can certainly help...
However, for best results, cut the garlic and simmer over medium heat for "maximum scent" and
maximum stress-relief benefit.
SIMPLE GARLIC & LEMON RECIPE A POWERHOUSE AGAINST CANCER
Next up, be sure to grab your free copy of
this Dynamic Duo Recipe and Guide right here if you haven't already.