Did You Know: Garlic

We love it for its intense flavor and it will always be a staple in our kitchens, but did you know “the stinking rose” has been used for centuries as a home remedy. Read why garlic is the food of the gods!

Valued as a health-protector for thousands of years, garlic bulbs are a useful antibiotic, and can also reduce the risk of both heart disease and cancer.

Although often used in small quantities, garlic can still make an impact on health. It is rich in powerful sulfur compounds that cause garlic's strong odor but are the main source of its health benefits. Research has found that garlic can help minimize the risk of both heart disease and many types of cancer. It is also a powerful antibiotic and inhibits fungal infections such as athlete's foot. It also appears to minimize stomach ulcers. Eaten in reasonable quantity, it is also a good source of vitamin C, selenium, potassium, and calcium.

The Good Stuff:

• may prevent formation of blood clots and arterial plaque and help prevent heart disease
• regular garlic consumption may significantly reduce the risk of colon, stomach, and prostate cancer
• natural antibiotic, antiviral, and anti fungal
• can help prevent stomach ulcers 

Facts:

• peak season year-round
• meat cooked at high temperatures, such as broiling or barbecuing, can have a carcinogenic effect, but when garlic is used with the meat it reduces the production of cancer promoting chemicals

Tips:

• choose large, firm, undamaged bulbs and store in a container with air holes, in a dark, cool, dry place for up to one month
• skin garlic by lightly crushing the clove with the flat side of a cleaver or knife, or purchase a nifty gadget to help, see here
• garlic should be crushed or chopped and allowed to stand for a few minutes before cooking
• lightly cook - long cooking destroys its beneficial compounds.
• fresh parsley eaten after a garlic meal may reduce any mouth odor

Related:

• Cool Kitchen Gadgets

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Reference: 100 Best health Foods, Eat This Not That, Cooking Light What to Eat
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