7 Proven Benefits of Garlic for Menopause Relief

Garlic isn’t just a kitchen staple; it’s a powerhouse of goodness, especially valuable during menopause. In this article, I'll share the benefits of Garlic for Menopause relief, why garlic should regularly feature on your plate, and easy tips for enjoying its benefits without worrying about garlic breath!

The 7 Proven Benefits of Garlic

1. Supports Heart Health

Menopause can affect heart health, including increased cholesterol and blood pressure. Garlic helps manage these by promoting better circulation and healthier cholesterol levels. Regular consumption of garlic has been linked to lower risks of cardiovascular diseases.

2. Reduces Inflammation

Joint discomfort and inflammation can become more pronounced during menopause. Garlic's anti-inflammatory properties can provide natural relief and help maintain joint mobility.

3. Boosts Immunity

Garlic has antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties, making it a natural immune booster. Regularly eating garlic helps fight infections and supports overall well-being during midlife transitions.

4. Balances Hormones

Hormonal fluctuations during menopause can cause discomfort and emotional ups and downs. Garlic provides essential nutrients that aid your body in naturally balancing hormones, helping you to feel more stable and comfortable.

5. Enhances Bone Health

Research indicates garlic could help reduce bone loss by increasing estrogen levels. This is particularly beneficial during menopause when declining estrogen levels can decrease bone density.

6. Supports Gut Health

Garlic acts as a prebiotic, nourishing beneficial gut bacteria and enhancing digestion. Good gut health supports your mood and immune system, which is particularly important during menopause.

7. Packed with Antioxidants

Garlic is rich in antioxidants, which protect cells from damage and reduce oxidative stress linked to ageing and menopause symptoms. Regular garlic intake helps maintain skin health, energy levels, and overall vitality.

How to Enjoy Garlic Without the Breath Worry

Are you worried about garlic breath? You’re not alone—but that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the powerful health benefits of garlic during menopause. The good news is that you can still enjoy this superfood without the lingering smell. With a few simple tricks, you can make garlic a regular part of your diet and keep your breath fresh. Here's how to enjoy garlic without the breath worry:

• Roast it: Roasting garlic softens its sharpness, resulting in a sweeter, milder flavour.

• Pair with parsley: Fresh parsley neutralises garlic breath—try sprinkling chopped parsley on garlic dishes.

• Use lemon juice: Lemon helps mask garlic's smell, so adding lemon juice to your dishes or drinking lemon water afterwards helps.

• Combine with dairy: Eating garlic with dairy, like yoghurt or cheese, significantly reduces its odour.

• Cook garlic gently: Slow cooking at lower temperatures mellows its taste and decreases odour.

Delicious Recipes Featuring Garlic

Like the idea of adding more garlic to your diet? Here are a few ideas on how to use garlic daily.

1. Roasted Garlic and Sweet Potato Soup

• Ingredients: sweet potatoes, garlic bulbs, olive oil, vegetable broth, onion, salt, pepper, fresh parsley.

• Method: Roast garlic and sweet potatoes until tender. Blend with sautéed onion and broth, season, and garnish with parsley.

2. Garlic and Herb Roasted Salmon

• Ingredients: salmon fillets, garlic cloves, lemon, mixed herbs, olive oil, salt, pepper.

• Method: Coat salmon with garlic, herbs, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper; roast until cooked.

3. Garlic and Spinach Chickpea Curry

• Ingredients: chickpeas, garlic, spinach, coconut milk, curry powder, onion, tomato, salt, pepper.

• Method: Sauté onion and garlic, add chickpeas, spices, spinach, tomato, and coconut milk. Simmer until flavours combine.

4. Easy Garlic and Lemon Chicken Tray Bake

• Ingredients: chicken thighs, garlic cloves, lemon slices, olive oil, herbs, salt, pepper.

• Method: Arrange ingredients on a tray, drizzle with olive oil, season, and bake until chicken is cooked.

5. Garlic and Rosemary Wholemeal Focaccia

• Ingredients: wholemeal flour, garlic, rosemary, olive oil, yeast, salt, water.

• Method: Make the dough, let it rise, shape it, add the garlic and rosemary topping, and bake until golden.

6. Quick Garlic and Ginger Stir-Fry Veggies

• Ingredients: mixed veggies, garlic cloves, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, pepper.

• Method: Quickly stir-fry veggies with garlic, ginger, and sauces for a tasty side dish.

7. Garlic-Infused Olive Oil

• Ingredients: olive oil, garlic cloves.

• Method: Gently heat olive oil and garlic cloves until aromatic, cool and store.

7 Proven Benefits of Garlic for Menopause Relief: Conclusion

By including garlic regularly and using these easy tips, you can comfortably reap its incredible menopause-supporting health benefits without worrying about your breath!

FAQs about Garlic:

1. Can I take garlic supplements instead of fresh garlic?

   • Fresh garlic is more beneficial, but supplements can be helpful to if fresh garlic isn’t suitable for your diet.

     
     

2. How much garlic should I eat daily?

   • Eating 1-2 cloves daily provides health benefits without overwhelming your meals.

     
     

3. Does cooking garlic reduce its health benefits?

   • Cooking garlic gently preserves many health benefits, though raw garlic provides the most potent nutrients.

     
     

4. Can garlic reduce cholesterol?

   • Studies suggest regular garlic consumption can help modestly reduce cholesterol levels, especially with a healthy diet.

     
     

5. Are there any side effects of eating too much garlic?

   • Excessive garlic intake might cause digestive upset or bad breath; moderation is key.