How to Consume Garlic for Health Benefits?
November 1, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Garlic is well-known for its potential health benefits, and it can be consumed in various forms to incorporate it into your diet. Here are several ways to consume garlic for its health benefits:
- Raw Garlic: Eating raw garlic is one of the most potent ways to benefit from its active compounds, such as allicin. You can mince or crush garlic and add it to dishes like salads, salsas, or spreads. Keep in mind that raw garlic has a strong flavor and can be pungent, so start with small amounts.
- Cooked Garlic: Cooking garlic can mellow its flavor while still retaining many health benefits. You can add minced or crushed garlic to stir-fries, sautés, soups, and a wide variety of dishes.
- Garlic Supplements: If you don’t enjoy the taste or smell of garlic, you can take garlic supplements in the form of capsules or tablets. These supplements often contain standardized amounts of active compounds like allicin.
- Garlic Powder: Garlic powder is a convenient way to add garlic flavor to your dishes. It’s a milder option compared to raw garlic and can be used in recipes like marinades, sauces, and spice blends.
- Garlic Oil: Garlic oil is available as a dietary supplement and can be used in cooking. It provides a concentrated source of garlic compounds.
- Roasted Garlic: Roasting garlic can make it soft, sweet, and mild in flavor. You can spread roasted garlic on bread, use it as a condiment, or incorporate it into recipes.
- Fermented Garlic: Fermented garlic is a form of black garlic that has a unique flavor and is believed to have enhanced health benefits. It can be eaten on its own or used as a flavor enhancer in various dishes.
- Garlic Pickles: Garlic cloves can be pickled and enjoyed as a condiment or a side dish. The pickling process reduces the pungent garlic taste.
- Garlic in Dressings and Sauces: Garlic can be included in salad dressings, pasta sauces, and spreads. This allows you to enjoy the flavor and health benefits of garlic without the strong taste.
- Garlic Supplements: If you’re looking for a convenient way to incorporate garlic into your daily routine, you can consider garlic supplements, such as aged garlic extract or garlic oil capsules. Make sure to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any supplements.
When consuming garlic for its health benefits, it’s important to remember that moderate consumption is usually sufficient. While garlic has numerous potential health advantages, excessive intake can lead to digestive discomfort or undesirable body odor. If you have specific health concerns or are taking medications, consult with a healthcare professional before significantly increasing your garlic intake, especially through supplements or concentrated forms.