Tuesday 9 December 2008

Garlic – Your Body’s White Knight


              Garlic has been hailed for its health-boosting properties for centuries.
              Not only does its pungent flavour add taste to dishes but garlic cloves are also believed to be effective against the common cold, be an effective aphrodisiac and, oh yes, what’s that legend about its ability to ward off vampires?
              The good news about garlic just keeps getting better. It has a mere 4 calories per clove, contains 45mg of calcium, 12mg of potassium, and more than 100 sulfuric compounds, said a report on website WebMD.
              That makes it powerful enough to wipe out bacteria and infection, which could explain why it was used to prevent gangrene in both world wars.
              Raw garlic, not cooked or dried, is the most beneficial for health.
              In clinical trials, the toxin-fighting staple seems to lower blood pressure and cholesterol and kill parasites in the body.
              Other immunity boosters include Brussels sprouts, cabbage, chives, kale, leeks, onions and shallots, all of which contain sulfuric compounds.

- Article taken from 'Mind Your Body' – a Straits Times supplement on Health 

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