Does Garlic Salt Have Any Health Benefits?
Does Garlic Salt Have Any Health Benefits?
Crafting garlic bread for tonight's dinner? Consider using fresh garlic, but bear in mind it can be somewhat cumbersome to chop and messy to handle. An easy alternative is granulated garlic, favored by many culinary experts for its convenience. Some prefer to use garlic salt to add an extra zing to the flavor. Nevertheless, it's important to note that garlic salt and granulated garlic are not interchangeable, as garlic salt combines dried ground garlic with salt, altering both taste and sodium content.
1. Garlic Salt vs. Garlic Powder
Please note that garlic powder and garlic salt should not be confused as interchangeable spices. Garlic powder is crafted from dehydrated fresh garlic, while garlic salt is a seasoned salt blend, consisting primarily of table salt mixed at a ratio of three to one with dried ground garlic, and often includes an anti-caking agent like calcium silicate to maintain its free-flowing quality. Hence, garlic salt contains a significant amount of salt and should be used to impart both a salty flavor and a hint of garlic to dishes such as bread, sauces, and various side dishes.
CHECK CALORIE2. Garlic Salt Medicinally
Garlic salt, which primarily consists of table salt, should be utilized in moderation. The garlic component has a longstanding history of medicinal use, particularly for bolstering the immune system. Garlic, in both its fresh and dried forms, is widely acknowledged for its antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. Research conducted by Harvard Medical School supports the ability of garlic to combat the common cold and numerous minor infections, owing to its innate immune-enhancing properties.
CHECK CALORIE3. Garlic to Prevent Cancer
Research conducted by the University of Maryland Medical Center suggests that incorporating garlic—whether fresh, powdered, or as garlic salt—into one's diet may contribute to a reduced risk of certain cancers, including pancreatic and colon cancers. This correlation is particularly pertinent for individuals with a family history of these diseases, underlining the potential benefits of garlic supplementation for cancer risk reduction.
CHECK CALORIE4. Garlic Helps Ward Off Hypertension
Studies have consistently shown that incorporating garlic into one's diet can be beneficial for cardiovascular health, with evidence suggesting a correlation between garlic consumption and reduced incidences of hypertension as well as favorable cholesterol levels. Researchers at Oregon State University have identified garlic's ability to function as a vasodilator, a property that contributes to the lowering of blood pressure and alleviates strain on both the heart and circulatory system. This effect has been observed with various forms of garlic, including garlic salt.
CHECK CALORIE5. Garlic for Better Cholesterol
Garlic, an active component in garlic salt, has the potential to reduce harmful LDL cholesterol levels, thus minimizing the risk of arterial constriction, while simultaneously promoting the increase of protective HDL cholesterol, aiding in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. However, given the predominant salt content in garlic worth noting, it is advisable to use this condiment sparingly to maintain a healthy diet. To enhance your garlic intake while minimizing salt consumption, consider opting for fresh garlic or garlic powder as preferable alternatives.
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