Eat Two Raw Garlic Cloves Daily for Better Lung Health
Scientists discovered that a special compound in garlic can prevent lab rats from developing certain lung diseases, adding new appeal to garlic as a health food.
Garlic has long been considered beneficial for health, capable of lowering blood pressure and cholesterol, and helpful in cancer treatment. A study showed garlic can also accelerate blood circulation in rat lungs, improving respiratory function.
In experiments, researchers first increased lung blood pressure in rats to mimic primary pulmonary hypertension seen in severe lung infections. This condition places heavy strain on the heart. Then, the rats were given crushed garlic. Researchers found that allicin in garlic significantly reduced lung blood pressure. Since allicin degrades when heated, cooked garlic offers little benefit. Additionally, experts revealed another finding: garlic helps enhance heart function.
Nutritionists suggest humans need at least two raw cloves of garlic daily to achieve similar health benefits. The key lies in maintaining stable release of garlic’s active compounds in the body.