Garlic and Olive Oil: Health Benefits to Know About
There are many uses for garlic-infused olive oil. It can be used in vegetable recipes, salad dressings, and in a multitude of other ways. Olive oil and garlic have been companions for centuries. When the two are married, they can provide a unique flavor to almost any dish from any cuisine. Not only do these provide unique flavorings, but there are many health benefits of garlic and olive oil.
Health Benefits of Garlic and Olive Oil
Both garlic and olive oil provide a wide range of health benefits. Each ingredient provides numerous benefits for the cardiovascular system, boosts immunity, and provides a host of other health benefits. When infused, the two flavors come together to create a stunning combination that chefs and novices can enjoy. Pair the flavorful goodness with garlic and olive oil health benefits, and you’ve got a winning combination that can’t be beaten.
Top Benefits of Garlic
On average, most people consume about two pounds of garlic in a year. It’s been used to flavor dishes in a variety of cuisines for many years. Ancient cultures used garlic for medical treatments. Chinese, Roman, and Egyptian civilizations are reported to have known garlic's health benefits. Here are some of the main health benefits of garlic.
- Garlic may boost the immune system.
Your immune system fights off illness when needed. Garlic can boost the immune system to help prevent the flu virus and colds. Eating raw garlic is thought to protect against fever, cough, and other symptoms of the common cold.
- Garlic can help reduce high blood pressure.
Heart attacks and strokes are major health concerns on a global level. A big risk factor for heart disease is high blood pressure. Using garlic can help reduce blood pressure. Lowering blood pressure helps to reduce the risk of both heart attacks and strokes.
- Antibiotic properties of garlic.
A bioactive antibiotic called allicin helps fight infections and bacteria. Allicin is found in garlic and is released when cloves are crushed, sliced, or squashed. Garlic extracts are believed to suppress the growth of viral infections, bacteria, protozoa, and fungi.
- Detoxifying effects of garlic.
The process of getting rid of things that do not belong in the body is called detoxification. Daily life exposes our bodies to a wide range of compounds and chemicals. These can be detrimental to the body. Garlic has detoxifying power that can help the body get rid of unwanted chemicals and compounds.
- Garlic may help prevent cancer.
Consuming fresh garlic may be beneficial for helping reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. Some research indicates that consuming garlic and other vegetables and fruits can help lower the chance of colon cancer.