5 Health Benefits of Garlic You Might Not Have Known About

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Benefits of Garlic You Might Not Have Known About in Des Moines, IA

Garlic has been used in folk medicine for more than 4,000 years, and research has confirmed many of its health benefits over the last several decades. Garlic is considered a superfood because it’s low in calories but packed with important nutrients and compounds that can fight cancer, offer cardioprotective benefits, and even fight the common cold. Here are 5 hidden benefits of garlic seniors can benefit from.

1. Boosts the Immune System

The common cold can be serious for seniors. Taking a garlic supplement every day can prevent cold and flu and reduce the severity of both illnesses. According to one study, taking garlic every day can reduce the number of colds by 63 percent and reduce the length of cold symptoms by 70 percent from 5 days to 1.5 days.  If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or assistance with daily tasks, make sure you choose a top-rated provider of homecare. Des Moines Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life in the golden years. From the mentally stimulating activities in our Cognitive Therapeutics Method to our friendly Care Managers who are available to answer your questions 24 hours a day, we offer a wide array of high-quality at-home care services.

2. Reduces Blood Pressure

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute has found that someone who has healthy blood pressure at the age of 50 has a 90 percent chance of developing high blood pressure later in life. The risk of hypertension increases with age, as do the potential consequences of high blood pressure. Research has found that daily consumption of garlic can reduce blood pressure among people with hypertension. The allicin in garlic is responsible for this protective benefit.

3. Maintains Healthy Cholesterol Levels

Thirty-two percent of adults in the U.S. have high LDL (bad) cholesterol. High cholesterol puts seniors at high risk for heart disease and stroke, although it can be managed. Along with prescription statins, garlic can be an effective way to control cholesterol levels. One study found that daily garlic consumption or supplements can reduce LDL cholesterol by up to 15 percent.

4. Lowers the Risk of Dementia

Free radicals in the body contribute to aging and increase the risk of cancer, Alzheimer’s, and other conditions. The antioxidants in garlic have been found to boost antioxidant enzymes in people while reducing oxidative stress in people with high blood pressure. By reducing blood pressure and cholesterol, it’s believed the antioxidants in garlic can reduce Alzheimer’s disease and dementia risk by protecting against cell aging.  Even when families have the best intentions, caring for a senior loved one with dementia can be challenging. Fortunately, Home Care Assistance is here to help. We are a leading provider of dementia care. Des Moines, IA, families can take advantage of our flexible and customizable care plans, and our caregivers always stay up to date on the latest developments in senior care

5. Reduces Bone Loss

Postmenopausal women are at a high risk of osteoporosis or bone loss because estrogen is necessary for building bone mass. While there have been no human studies yet, research has found that garlic can increase estrogen in female rats and minimize bone loss. A study involving menopausal women also found that daily consumption of garlic decreased a marker of estrogen deficiency.  Eating healthy is just one of several ways to age in place successfully. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional home care. Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life. To schedule a free, no-obligation consultation, call one of our Care Managers today at (515) 264-2438.

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