Five proven benefits of eating garlic in winter

We have all heard people talking about garlic and its various health benefits. It is said that eating a clove or two of fresh garlic or adding this magical herb to your daily diet can keep the doctor away, in parts because it has immune-boosting, antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-fungal effects. Of the many health benefits, researchers suggest the herb may also hold some promise for weight loss as well. Garlic is also referred to as ‘wonder drug’ due to its medicinal or healing properties.  

This winter, include garlic in your daily routine to help ward off a host of infections such as cold, cough, sore throat, and other ailments. This superfood can also keep your blood pressure and heart in good shape. It can also lower ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol. Here are five reasons to eat more garlic this winter:

Prevents colds and flu

The antimicrobial and antioxidant properties in garlic can help fight against the cold and flu virus effectively. Most researchers believe allicin, the active sulphur-containing compound in garlic, is responsible for the anti-common cold effects. Also, garlic has the potential to boost the function of the immune system. 

Heart healthy

It has been shown that garlic can help promote heart health and prevent cardiovascular diseases such as strokes and heart attacks, which are world’s biggest killers. Eating garlic on a regular basis helps to lower cholesterol, regulate blood pressure and blood sugar levels.

Fights cancer

A number of studies have shown that the antioxidants in garlic can help lower the risk of certain cancers, including cancers of the stomach, colon, esophagus, pancreas, and breast. Allicin, which strengthens the immune system, is well-known for healing cancer.  

Supports weight loss

Garlic is highly nutritious but has very few calories. It is very rich in very rich in vitamin C, vitamin B6 and ,manganese – all of which support healthy weight loss and metabolism. This versatile food is a fat-flusher, metabolic booster, a powerful detoxifier, and an effective diuretic.

Promotes longevity

Many researchers believe that adding garlic may help you live longer - given the beneficial effects on health, from reducing the risk of deadly diseases to keeping the immune system healthy. So, it makes perfect sense that it could help increase your lifespan expectancy.