The component called allicin found in garlic. This is the cause of garlic's unique spicy aroma and strong flavor, but it is not just a harsh component; it has tremendous antibacterial and antiviral effects. Allicin is produced when garlic is crushed, inhibiting not only bacteria and fungi but even gut bacteria like Helicobacter. So, it is quite beneficial for those who often experience heartburn.

Thus, it can cover cold prevention, fatigue recovery, and inflammation suppression all at once.

It also has tremendous benefits for the heart. It lowers LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) levels in the blood and naturally reduces blood pressure, making it almost a natural tonic for those with hypertension.

For those with thick blood, it also has the function of improving blood circulation, so garlic effectively supports vascular health, which becomes increasingly important as we age.

And one important thing. Garlic contains components that help the mitochondria's energy production ability. Simply put, when our body's cells produce energy called ATP in the energy factory, garlic acts as a catalyst.

For example, it's like giving a boost with a backup battery when a car won't start?

Garlic is also good for gut health. Especially, it acts as a prebiotic, helping the good bacteria in our body to grow better. So, when eaten with probiotics like kimchi or yogurt, it becomes almost a gut super duo. It is effective for those suffering from constipation and helps those with frequent gut troubles.

And for men, there's a part that might be a bit concerning... prostate health. Since garlic has anti-inflammatory effects, it positively influences this area as well. Now that I'm over 40, I can't help but notice these things.

Raw garlic is said to be the most potent, but its sharp, spicy, and almost tongue-piercing taste makes it hard to eat every day. Instead, when cooked, allicin decreases, but other antioxidant components become activated, so consistency in consumption is the most important.

These days, I keep honey-pickled garlic in a glass jar and eat one clove every morning. The sharp aroma that spreads in my mouth is slightly followed by the taste of honey, which is quite addictive.

There are also many processed forms like roasted garlic, garlic juice, and black garlic, so finding what suits your taste and incorporating it into your routine is a wise method.

Sometimes in life, our bodies don't cooperate. At such times, basic health foods like 'garlic' are truly reassuring.

It's not medicine, but if consumed consistently, it can be better than medicine.

Today, another clove. Garlic makes me feel re-energized.