With an increase in health consciousness there are a plethora of organic cooking ingredients that we often come across in the supermarkets.
At times, we pick these eye-grabbing organic ingredients without knowing much about the pros and cons of these variants.
Call it inquisitiveness or smart branding tactics, we often end up buying these different variants in the name of health eating.
What is black garlic exactly?
Black garlic is fermented in different temperatures for at least two weeks. The garlic heads are aged till the cloves turn black and the peel turns brown in colour, this chemical reaction happens when the garlic is kept in moist conditions and in a low temperature of 140 degree fahrenheit. This temperature and humid conditions trigger the reactions, which impacts the amino acids and naturally present sugar in garlic to change the taste, texture and flavour of this ingredient. The distinct black color comes from the production of a compound called melanoidin. Not only does this reaction change the colour, but it also changes the strong aroma, the crunchiness and the taste. This process removes the punchy taste and makes garlic light and chewable. However, with all the changes, this variant of garlic has double the nutrition as compared to regular garlic.
1. Good for diabetics
Like raw garlic, black garlic is great to regulate the insulin balance in the body and manage the sugar level. However, moderate consumption is necessary to reap the benefits. In fact, too much of anything can have adverse effects. According to health experts, the antioxidants and nutrients present in black garlic can effectively lower the triglycerides level in the blood and manage sugar as well as help in managing weight.
2. Great for heart health
One garlic clove a day can keep heart diseases at bay! Consuming garlic can help in improving heart health and reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. According to a few studies, black garlic works wonder in reducing the bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides, which helps in improving heart health.
3. Perfect brain food
Black Garlic has a higher concentration of nutrients as compared to regular garlic, which makes it a great immunity booster. Apart from that, regular consumption of this blac garlic is great for brain development and can keep age related diseases like Dementia and Alzimers at bay, which are caused by damaged cells in the brain. Antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties of black garlic work wonders on healing the damaged cells in the body.
4. May have anticancer properties
Several studies indicate a positive effect of black garlic in fighting cancer cells. Black garlic has shown stronger immune boosting, antioxidant, and anticancer activities than raw garlic in a number of cancer-related studies.
5. May help regulate blood sugar
Uncontrolled high blood sugar in people with diabetes can increase the risk of complications, including kidney damage, infections, and heart disease. Studies have shown black garlic may help regulate blood sugar, reduce the risk of gestational diabetes, and even prevent damage from uncontrolled diabetes. Scientists need to do more research on these effects in humans, however.
How can you use black garlic in your daily diet
Since ages, black garlic has been a part of pan-asian cuisine and over the past few years it has turned out to be fad among health enthusiasts for its medicinal and immunity boosting properties.
- To reap the maximum benefits, you can eat two to three cloves in the morning.
- Black garlic is added in soups, condiments to enhance the taste and give it a different sweet-savoury flavour.
- You can add some chopped raw garlic to your toasts, salads
- Its distinctive taste and aroma is great for making stews, soups and oriental curries.
