Garlic is one of the spices commonly used for cooking. Apart from being a flavor enhancer, garlic also has tremendous health benefits.
Although the aroma is quite pungent, the ‘allicin’ component in garlic has an antimicrobial effect that is good for digestion, health, and garlic is also an antibiotic that can fight fungal infections with antibacterial and antiviral effects.
Then, what are the benefits of eating garlic directly for health?
- Boost Immune System
Consuming garlic extract can reduce the signs of flu symptoms so that the symptoms can heal quickly. Eating garlic can also prevent Covid-19 infection by boosting immune system cells and suppressing the production and secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines and the pro-inflammatory hormone leptin from adipose tissue.
- Lowering Cholesterol Levels
Researchers found this benefit comes from the allicin content in garlic. Allicin is only produced by garlic when the cloves are chopped, crushed, or crushed by chewing. Allicin is able to inhibit enzymes that play a role in making cholesterol.
- Lowering Blood Sugar Levels
Garlic can reduce fluctuations in blood sugar levels, people with diabetes are advised to consume it. In addition, carbohydrates are metabolized very quickly and cause blood sugar levels to rise, the benefits of garlic ensure that carbohydrates are metabolized at a regular rate.
- Lowering High Blood Pressure
Garlic contains polysulfide which works to widen blood vessels so that it can lower blood pressure.
- Prevent Liver Cancer
Garlic contains active sulfur which prevents the formation of cancer cells and inhibits their spread in the body. Eating garlic can also lower the risk of several types of cancer, such as stomach, esophageal, pancreatic, breast, and prostate cancer.