Black garlic has gained such popularity in recent years that it has become one of the most trendy ingredients used in cooking recipes by professional chefs and in herbal shops as a medicinal food.
This black-colored garlic is obtained by subjecting traditional garlic to a process of chemical reactions called Maillard reactions. For a month, it must be kept at constant temperatures between 65ºC and 80ºC to achieve that color.
What black garlic is used for
Black garlic is an ingredient that began to be used for medicinal purposes hundreds of years ago. The very interesting and beneficial properties of this superfood largely derive from its raw material, traditional garlic.
Thanks to its fermentation process, it changes color and some of its positive health characteristics are enhanced. Additionally, the flavor of classic fresh white garlic, somewhat strong and unpleasant, disappears.
Most of its benefits lie in the fact that it contains essential amino acids and antioxidants. It also contains other essential nutrients for your body to function properly, such as vitamins (notably vitamins B1, B2, B3, and vitamin C) and minerals.
Properties of black garlic
Benefits of black garlic
Besides its mild flavor and the fact that it does not cause bad breath, the properties and health benefits of black garlic may be the reasons why these foods have become so popular in cooking recipes.
- Its ability to strengthen the immune system by promoting the appearance of defensive cells is one of the main properties of these foods. It prevents colds and can protect against all kinds of infectious diseases.
- Black garlic is a source high in phenols, specifically S-Allyl-Cysteine (SAC), which have strong antioxidant power. This reduces oxidative stress by neutralizing the action of free radicals that cause cellular aging.
- Although some studies reveal that white garlic is superior to black garlic in terms of anti-inflammatory capacity, it remains a very useful food if you have any inflammatory pathology.
- The properties of black garlic give it a hepatoprotective role, meaning it can protect the liver from injuries and help it when it has suffered damage.
- Another of its great health benefits is that it protects the cardiovascular system by reducing blood pressure, preventing the onset of cardiovascular diseases, and improving blood circulation.
- It helps to control cholesterol levels in the blood, restoring the balance between HDL and LDL to normal levels.
Contraindications
Black garlic is a natural food, directly derived from a fermentation process of common garlic. For this reason, it does not have very pronounced contraindications or side effects on health.
However, as with all foods, if you have doubts it is preferable to contact your doctor directly. Some of the contraindications of black garlic are:
- Besides all its amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, it is a product with high iodine content. Therefore, if you have thyroid problems it is better to avoid it.
- Black garlic lowers blood pressure, so it is not recommended to take it before undergoing surgical procedures.
- There is no evidence that pregnant women and babies cannot consume it. Still, it is better not to overdo it and consult your doctor.
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