Love the spicy and pungent tastes of garlic in your meals? Here are three reasons to add garlic to your diet if you’re diabetic.
Garlic has been a favorite culinary additive for centuries. It is present in many regional cuisines. And most people either love or hate its distinctive flavor. Little did you know, though, that the popular ingredient from your favorite foods also has valuable health applications.
1. Lowers High Blood Pressure and Cholesterol
Though studies are conflicting, there is a dialogue in the research community about whether garlic can lower blood cholesterol levels. There is evidence that, however small, it still affects minor lowering of low-density lipoprotein (LDL).
Additionally, it may also help people with high blood pressure. Any help with reducing the risk of potential heart disease is good news for diabetics, as diabetics suffer from added complications associated with heart disease.
2. Lowers Blood Sugar Levels
Studies also indicate positive results for using raw garlic in high doses to reduce blood sugar levels. Another study supports these findings, adding that consuming garlic helped with blood glucose control. Though there is a call to conduct more research to find out long-term effects of consuming garlic for health benefits, there have been positive results for using it on a short-term basis.
3. Contains Vital Nutrients Important for Diabetics
Lastly, garlic contains nutrients that can help support diabetics specifically. It is known to have vitamin B6, which is important for keeping a healthy immune system and nervous system. It is also utilized when your body metabolizes carbohydrates.
Additionally, garlic is also a good source of vitamin C. While you can obtain vitamin C from a variety of sources, the added benefit of adding garlic for its vitamin C content is another option for your meal plan. Vitamin C helps your body maintain blood glucose levels.
Final Thoughts
These 3 reasons to add garlic to your diet if you’re diabetic are only the main health benefits so far. Research is still ongoing, but the results are promising so far. Just remember, raw garlic has more therapeutic properties than its cooked counterpart. So, if you can stomach it, add it raw. Otherwise, talk to your doctor about using garlic supplements.
