Isn’t it just a little bit ironic that someone decided garlic was the ultimate deterrent for vampires when it has been linked to the eternal youth vampires for which vampires are so well known? Ok, maybe garlic can’t give you eternal youth. But research has shown that this onion species packs a powerful punch when it comes to health and anti-aging. Whether you crush it, mince it, or take it as a supplement, garlic can significantly impact your overall health.

Garlic and other onions have long been known for their ability to fight bacteria, even the strong bacteria that may become resistant to antibiotics. Garlic has also shown a strong ability to reduce levels of bad cholesterol. But did you know that this miracle food can also diminish signs of aging?

Garlic has demonstrated powerful properties as an antioxidant, protecting the skin against damage caused by free radicals, oxidation, and environmental stressors. This in turn prevents wrinkles and other signs of aging caused by skin damage. The active component of garlic is allicin, a compound capable of killing bacteria and fungus. This compound is also what gives garlic its distinct odor and onion-like ability to irritate the eyes.

Due to its unstable nature, allicin has not been clinically tested to determine the exact benefits it offers. However, studies have shown that an increased consumption of garlic may lower cholesterol, reduce the risk of heart disease, serve as a powerful antioxidant, and extend longevity. In order to be effective, allicin must be released through by breaking the garlic through crushing or mincing. When the garlic clove is broken, the enzyme allinase combines with the compound alliin to produce allicin. Being an unstable product, allicin is then susceptible to changing into other compounds as quickly as it was produced.

Regardless of lack of conclusive research on the exact properties of allicin, garlic is undoubtedly one of the superfoods when it comes to health and fighting the signs of aging. If you aren’t particularly fond of the taste and strong odor associated with consuming garlic or garlic products, there are several supplements on the market that include garlic extract.

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