Garlic is one of the most beneficial and nutritious ingredients that you can add to your diet. It is loaded with a host of vitamins, minerals, nutrients and medicinal properties which make it one of the healthiest dishes you can prepare for your family. Allicin, a sulfur compound in garlic has been found to be a potent cancer fighter. Additionally, it is a strong antioxidant that fights free radicals, which are highly dangerous and damaging to our bodies. In fact, research has shown that the allicin in garlic helps lower LDL cholesterol levels, which are known to contribute to the development of heart diseases and strokes.
Garlic can be taken in the form of supplements or eaten directly. It is recommended to take about a teaspoon of fresh garlic in a glass of water or mixed with some butter or margarine for better results. Another way of taking garlic is to chop it finely and boil it in a cup of water. It is also advisable to add some fresh dill in water while preparing this. Munch on pieces of fresh garlic to get the best of its health benefits of garlic and its side effects.
There are many people who suffer from digestive problems and heartburn. You must know that these two are intimately related. One of the proven health benefits of garlic and its side effects is that it dissolves the deposits of fats and cholesterol that form in the large intestines. This way it reduces the risk of heart diseases, obesity and various digestive problems. By eating raw garlic, you can easily control your cholesterol level, which in turn helps reduce the risk of various heart diseases and stroke.
Another good thing about the proven health benefits of garlic and its side effects is that garlic contains a substance called allicin, which is said to be a natural antibiotic. It is useful in reducing inflammation and also reduces the pain caused by rheumatic arthritis and osteoarthritis. Garlic acts as a natural detoxifier that helps the body in getting rid of harmful toxins and wastes that otherwise find their way to different parts of the body through the blood and other channels. Garlic is said to have more therapeutic properties than almost all the medicines used in the world.
Garlic is considered very beneficial for women during their menstrual period. Its benefits are not limited to women alone. It has been proven in the recent years that garlic has great benefits for those suffering from cancer. It helps in fighting different kinds of cancers like breast, prostate, ovarian, stomach, pancreatic as well as rectal cancer. The side effects of this herb are said to be few and mild. These include swelling of the stomach, chills, nausea, diarrhea as well as vomiting.
There are certain things which should be kept in mind while taking this herb. Intake of garlic should be done only under the guidance of a qualified health practitioner. It should never be taken with alcohol or any other medicine that may cause allergy in the patient. Also, people who suffer from heart disease, diabetes as well as glaucoma must not take this herb. People who are suffering from cancer as well as bleeding disorders such as endometriosis, uterine prolapse, cystic fibrosis and bowel obstructions should not take this herb.