How Does Garlic Speed Up Metabolism?
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Garlic, also called the "stinky rose," is a white bulb with a paper-like skin that covers the garlic cloves inside the bulb. It offers many health benefits to consumers, and there is debate over exactly how garlic speeds up a person's metabolism. Some studies indicate that garlic's ability to remove toxins and improve circulation may be one way to speed up the metabolism, but research is inconclusive. However, there is much evidence that verifies the health benefits of garlic.
Weight-loss benefits
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Garlic's ability to filter toxins from the body and improve circulation is well known in the medical community. When toxins build up in the body, they contribute to a feeling of sluggishness that can be compounded by poor circulation. The overall cumulative effects of this sluggishness have been shown to slow the metabolism and contribute to other health issues, including stroke. Adding garlic to the diet helps boost overall well-being. As a weight loss aid, it is best used in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise, and with its ability to cleanse toxins and improve circulation, that often leads to better motivation to begin and stick with an exercise regimen.
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Consumption
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The most common way to consume garlic is as an additive in food. Many recipes recommend using garlic to replace salt in cooking, which has the added benefit of lowering sodium intake. Sliced or minced garlic bulbs are often added to stews, roasts and pastas. Garlic powder, which is made from dried and crushed garlic, can be substituted. Garlic also helps one feel fuller after a meal, and can help suppress the appetite. For dieters who may not find the taste of garlic enjoyable, there are garlic capsules available in both regular and odorless form.
Other uses
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Garlic is also useful for killing bacteria that can cause food poisoning, and may also help ease general stomachaches. This is due to the presence of sulfur compounds in the herb. Garlic also contains many amino acids, minerals (including manganese) and vitamins (including vitamins B6 and C). Some researchers have found that garlic can help reduce high cholesterol, and garlic has been shown to have potential in fighting cancer, although studies are incomplete. During World War II, garlic was used to treat wounds because of its antibiotic properties. Garlic contains a compound called allicin, which is effective in fighting 23 types of bacteria. Garlic is also effective in preventing strokes.
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