Garlic and wooden stakes have historically been though for their protection against night-walking vampires. But garlic holds many other protective benefits. Garlic contains manganese, tryptophan, phosphorous, copper, protein, vitamin B1, B6 and C at only 42 calories per ounce.
Vitamin C: Prevents the oxidation of your LDL (bad cholesterol). Oxidized LDL can lead to damage of your blood vessel walls.
Vitamin B6: Lowers the levels of the amino acid, homocysteine, which is a risk factor for heart disease.
Selenium: Aids in slowing the oxidation of LDL and so lowers the risk of coronary artery disease; also activates prostaglandins, which aid in the expansion and constriction of blood vessels, and regulate blood pressure.
Other Health Benefits of Garlic
● produces hydrogen sulfide gas, which helps to expand blood vessels and keep blood pressure in check
● may help improve iron metabolism
● has the ability to lower triglycerides and total cholesterol
● can help protect against blood clots by preventing the platelets from becoming too sticky
Preparation Tips: After chopping or crushing, let the garlic rest for a few minutes before adding it to a hot pan. And when cooking with garlic, add at the end of the recipe to maintain the most nutrition and taste.
Reliv nutritional products containing garlic include Reliv Now®, Reliv Classic® and FibRestore®. Not a garlic lover? Try a berry flavored CardioSentials® shake from Reliv instead. CardioSentials is clinically proven to lower risk factors for heart disease.