By Kac Young Ph.D, ND, DCH
Continued from part 1 of this article…..
A recent meta-analysis in China looked at 26 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials—the “gold standard” in scientific research. In that meta-analysis, researchers concluded that garlic reduces total cholesterol by 5.4% and triglyceride levels by 6.5% compared with a placebo. Garlic powder and aged garlic extract were found to be the most effective at lowering total cholesterol, while garlic oil had a greater effect on lowering triglyceride levels.[3]
It can prevent strokes: Garlic on its own is a rich source of anjoene , an antithrombotic (anti-clotting) agent which helps prevent platelets in the blood from forming blood clots, and is packed with nitrites – a compound that helps dilate (or widen) the arteries. Both of these nutrients can help prevent the onset of a stroke (a condition caused by the formation of a blood clot in the blood vessels of the brain).
It can delay wrinkles and premature ageing: Antioxidants help prevent premature ageing by scavenging free radicals in our body – the leading cause of ageing. According to the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry study, garlic pods sprouted for five days have the highest antioxidant activity – making them a youth elixir for your body.
It does boost your immune system: If you suffer from frequent colds, coughs or infections you might also benefit from sprouted garlic. Sprouted garlic provides your body with a strong boost of antioxidants. Antioxidants strengthen your immune system which help you ward off infections. Historically, garlic has received attention as a potent antibacterial agent. In 1858, Louis Pasteur touted garlic as an antibiotic. Garlic was later used in World War I and World War II as an antiseptic to prevent gangrene.
How to sprout your own garlic:
Garlic normally sprouts on its own if left out in the open. But if you want to sprout them yourself, here is a way to hasten the process:
Place a pod of unpeeled garlic and gently poke in three tooth picks on three sides of the garlic. Make sure you place the toothpicks in the fleshy part of the pod. Fill up a small glass with clean water (tap water is fine.). Balance the garlic pod on the rim of the glass using the toothpicks as braces to partially submerge the root section in the water.
Allow the glass to stay on the windowsill for five days, making sure the bottom is always submerged in the water. Once it is sprouted, wash it well and add to foods for the nutritional benefits it provides.
If you have a personal or family history of heart disease, ask your doctor about using garlic (in food or supplements) as part of a heart-healthy lifestyle. Be sure to consult your doctor first if you take a blood pressure or statin drug.
Because garlic may also interact with certain prescription drugs, such as warfarin (Coumadin), consult your doctor before significantly increasing your intake of the herb if you take any medication or have a chronic medical condition.
– Kac Young , a former television director and producer, has earned a Ph.D. in Natural Health and is a Doctor of both Clinical Hypnotherapy and Naturopathy. She is the author of 10 books. Heart Easy is a system of nutritionally sound, delicious meals that promote heart health, long life and taste great. Traditional recipes are turned into heart healthy meals that anyone can make. The health results are outstanding.