Garlic

Garlic Garlic is perhaps the most used vegetable in the world. With a history dating back to more than 6000 years, garlic is commonly used in almost every world cuisine. While a staple of Mediterranean cooking, garlic is extensively used in Asian, African and European cooking. In addition to its culinary qualities, garlic remains a great way to reduce the probability of infection and inflammation.
Ancient Egyptians worshipped garlic for its taste and medicinal qualities. As a highly prized vegetable, garlic was even used as currency in many world cultures. The word garlic derives from the Old English word Garleac, meaning “Spear leek”. While the garlic grows underground, it contains a large spear which protrudes through the soil, and can reach two the three feet in height.

Key Nutrients

Garlic provides a great source for vitamin B6, vitamin C, manganese, and selenium.

Health Benefits

Vitamin C – Regular consumption of foods rich in vitamin C helps the body develop resistance against infections and scavenges harmful, pro-inflammatory free radicals. Vitamin C also helps to prevent respiratory problems such as asthma and lung cancer. Vitamin C has been shown to lower blood pressure, and therefore lessen the probability of hypertension.

Vitamin B6 – Vitamin B6 helps to keep your immune system in good working order. It aids in the breakdown of fats, carbohydrates and amino acids while helping to maintain the health of lymph nodes. Additionally, vitamin B6 helps to regulate blood glucose levels.

Manganese – Manganese aids in the metabolism of food as well as promotes normal functioning of the nervous system. Manganese works as an antixoidant to help prevent cancer and heart disease.

Season

Garlic matures in late summer/early fall. Due to its amazing ability to store well, garlic is available year round in supermarkets.

Nutrition Information

Per 1 Clove:

Calories (cKal): 4
Protein (grams): .19
Total Fat (grams): .01
Carbohydrates (grams): .99
Fiber (grams): .1

Buying and Storing

Garlic stores very well, so buying garlic does not require any special conditions. Garlic can store for months in your kitchen at room temperature.

Best Way to Add to Diet

Garlic can be added to the diet in many ways. Roasted garlic is a great way to reduce the potency of this tasty ingredient. Simply drizzle the garlic cloves with a bit of olive oil, sea salt and pepper, then place in aluminum foil. Roast the garlic in an oven for around an hour, then add to any dish. Additionally, garlic goes well in most recipes, especially Italian influenced dishes. To reduce the potency, make sure to finely dice or chop before adding to a recipe.