Garlic and Ginger Make a Very Effective Combination Against Colds And Viruses
Ginger and garlic are very popular ingredients in gastronomy, but not many are aware of what else lies behind the taste. These plants have some of the most powerful health benefits out of all these foods. Regular consumption helps lead to a powerful body that will stay healthy, due to the healing and disease-preventing capabilities of their nutrients. Let’s see what exactly garlic and ginger can do for you.
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Benefits of Garlic
- Antifungal
First of all, garlic has extremely powerful antifungal properties. It has been found to be very efficient against Candida and Athlete’s Foot. Regular consumption is recommended but for skin fungus such as the athlete’s foot, it is better that you take garlic baths. Simply crush a few cloves finely, add them to warm water and soak your feet in the solution for 30 minutes.
- Very nutritious, yet low in calories
Garlic is rich in nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin B6 and manganese, all while being low in calories. This translates in one of the most well-rounded foods, having benefits in numerous aspects of health.
- Reduces blood pressure
Garlic has been found to reduce blood pressure when consumed in consistent amounts, such as 4-5 cloves per day. That is due to its antioxidant capabilities.
- Lowers cholesterol
Garlic lowers bad cholesterol (LDL) and total cholesterol in your body without affecting your good (HDL) levels.
- Garlic can help prevent aging effects
Garlic’s antioxidants help protect against cell damage and aging. They can also defend against common diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia.
- Improves your immune system
Garlic boosts your immune system, helping you fight both colds and more severe diseases.
Benefits of Ginger
- Highly nutritious
Ginger is an important source of Vitamin C, potassium, manganese and beta-carotene. It also contains gingerol, a bioactive compound that acts as a very effective anti-inflammatory and antioxidant.
- Helps with nausea
Ginger has been confirmed to be effective against nausea.
- Helps with your joints
The anti-inflammatory properties of ginger offer help with osteoarthritis, leading to less pain and less need for medication.
- Is very likely to lower blood sugars
Although the study was carried on a small scale, ginger has been found to lower blood sugars and reduce heart disease risk when used on a daily basis. The initial conclusion is very promising.
- Helps your digestion
Ginger has been shown to speed up digestion. A common cause of digestive problems and discomfort is the stomach being emptied too slow, something that ginger can fix.
- Fights infections
Gingerol, the bioactive compound in ginger, reduces the chances of harmful bacteria forming and expanding. It has been shown to be effective against viruses responsible for respiratory infections and oral problems, such as periodontitis and gingivitis.
While the benefits are even more than what we can cover here, the bottom line is the same. Garlic and ginger are an excellent combination of ingredients for your daily diet; not only do they provide great flavor, but their wide range of health benefits are hard to match.