Garlic powder, an essential kitchen ingredient, has more benefits than just a burst of flavors. Did you know that garlic powder possesses an astounding range of health benefits? Well, you read that right! Garlic powder, which is concentrated, dried garlic cloves, is rich in nutrients like vitamins , minerals, and antioxidants. It has the same nutritional value as fresh garlic. In fact, some studies even suggest that garlic powder may support reduced blood pressure, a better immune system, and have other health benefits.

In this article, you’ll be exploring the possible health advantages of garlic powder, its health benefits and how to use it in your favorite dishes!

 

What Is Garlic Powder?

Garlic powder, a pantry staple, works well as a simple fresh garlic replacement. Made from powdered and dried garlic cloves, it gives a rich depth and strong aroma to a variety of meals. It is frequently used in a wide range of cuisines, particularly in Middle Eastern, Asian, and Mediterranean cuisines. In addition, it can be found in spice mixtures such as garlic salt, garlic pepper, and garlic bread seasoning. As a substitute to fresh garlic, it is both efficient and shelf-stable.

 

What Are The Health Benefits of Garlic Powder?

There are various health been benefits of garlic powder. Its rich value in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and bioactive substances accounts for its many health advantages. Here are a few of them:

Boosts Immunity

Garlic powder is a great immunity booster. It has antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial qualities that protects you from infectious diseases like cold, flu, and pneumonia.

Its high allicin content—a substance created when garlic cloves are crushed or chopped—is one of its main advantages. When it comes to fighting dangerous bacteria, allicin is a formidable opponent. Allicin prevents and even eradicates these bacteria, which have the ability to infect and irritate the body.

Moreover, vitamin C is also present in garlic powder which is a notable source of antioxidant. Free radicals are unstable chemicals that can harm cells and be linked to a number of health problems. Antioxidants fight these molecules. Vitamin C enhances the general performance of your immune system by eliminating these free radicals, increasing its capacity to fend off illnesses.

Lowers Blood Pressure

There’s more to garlic powder than just adding a flavorful taste. According to studies, garlic powder helps in maintaining normal blood pressure levels. Allicin, a substance found in garlic powder, helps to relax blood vessels and enhances blood flow. Additionally, allicin may stimulate the production of another molecule called nitric oxide, which can assist in lowering blood pressure.

Potassium, a mineral that controls blood vessel contraction and fluid balance, is also found in garlic powder. Remarkably, a meta-analysis of research published in 2020 discovered that supplementing with garlic may help hypertensive individuals’ systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

Strengthens the Digestive System

Garlic powder also has the potential to strengthen your digestive system. It has an ability to increase the production of saliva and gastric acid, two digestive enzymes that aid in the breakdown of food and improve the absorption of nutrients. Additionally, Garlic powder may help decrease bad stomach bacteria while encouraging the development of good probiotics. This may help maintain a more balanced gut microbiota.

Moreover, garlic powder has the ability to control bowel movements, which helps you to fight against diarrhea and constipation. According to a 2023 study, it may even help with irritable bowel syndrome symptoms like bloating, abdominal pain, and frequency of stool.

Reduces the Risk of Heart Disease

An amazing benefit of garlic powder is that it enhances your cardiovascular health and lowers the risk of heart disease. It even helps lower your cholesterol levels by lowering your body’s production and absorption of cholesterol. Additionally, the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, which can result in plaque accumulation and arterial stiffness, may be inhibited by using garlic powder.

Furthermore, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities of garlic powder may lessen the overall strain on your cardiovascular system and may aid in the prevention of blood clots and strokes.

Enhances Bone Strength

Garlic powder also helps in maintaining your bones’ strength. It contains nutrients that are necessary for healthy bones, such as calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium. Garlic powder’s vitamin K concentration, which is essential for bone growth and mineralization, accounts for this possible advantage. Additionally, vitamin K helps your body to utilise calcium, which is a key component of bones.

According to certain research, garlic may also help control hormones like parathyroid hormone and estrogen, which may have an impact on bone metabolism.

What Are the Uses of Garlic Powder?

The versatility of garlic powder is quite evident in its various culinary uses. Here’s a glimpse:

• Soups & Stews: Sprinkling garlic powder into your hot chilli, hearty vegetable stews, and cozy chicken soup can add a rich flavor and aroma.
• Sauces and Dips: A dash of garlic powder elevates your sauces and dips into another level. It goes well with guacamole, salsa, hummus, cheese sauce, barbecue sauce, and tomato sauce.
• Marinades and Rubs: Garlic powder works its magic to enhance the flavour quality of marinades and rubs for various kinds of meat, and seafood.
• Grains and Vegetables: A pinch of garlic powder can make your roast potatoes, carrots, and broccoli extremely delicious and savory. It also subtly enhances a variety of grain recipes.
• Eggs and Cheese: Add a pinch of garlic powder to your scrambled eggs and omelets to make them even better. It wonderfully balances the richness of cheese in a variety of dishes.

 

What Are the Side Effects of Garlic Powder?

Garlic powder is normally safe, however when taken in large amounts, it can have certain negative effects:

• Digestive Discomfort: Consuming too much garlic powder may result in digestive problems such as gas, bloating, heartburn, and diarrhea. This is more typical when using concentrated supplements or raw garlic.

 

• Allergic Reactions: Some people are allergic to garlic. When exposed to garlic, people with garlic allergies may experience rashes, itching, swelling, or even a life-threatening allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis. In case you think you may be allergic to garlic, make sure you don’t consume it until advised by a medical expert.