Garlic scapes might not be as well-known as garlic bulbs, but these curly green shoots have powerful benefits. If you’re unfamiliar with them, you’re in for a treat.
Not only do they add a unique garlic flavor to your dishes, but they also boast impressive nutritional properties that can support your overall health.
#1. Support Your Immune System
Garlic scapes are rich in vitamin C, which C helps your body fight off infections by supporting the production of white blood cells.
Just 100 grams of garlic scapes provide around 25% of your daily recommended intake of this essential vitamin.
Moreover, garlic scapes contain sulfur compounds like allyl sulfides, which have antimicrobial properties that further enhance your body’s defense system.
Studies, like one from The Journal of Immunology, show that garlic’s natural compounds can improve your immune response.
#2. Boost Heart Health
Garlic scapes are heart-friendly thanks to their sulfur compounds and high potassium content. These compounds help lower blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels and improving circulation.
Furthermore, potassium balances sodium levels in the body, helping to regulate blood pressure naturally.
Research in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition suggests that garlic and its derivatives can help lower cholesterol, thereby reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
You can enjoy the benefits of garlic scapes in your diet by adding them to your meals regularly.
#3. Promote Detoxification
Garlic scapes contain sulfur compounds that enhance the liver’s ability to flush out toxins from the body. In addition, these compounds help protect liver cells from damage.
According to a study published in The Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, garlic’s sulfur content is particularly beneficial for detoxifying harmful substances.
Including garlic scapes in your diet can help you maintain a healthy liver and a toxin-free body.
#4. Improve Bone Health
Garlic scapes benefit bone health thanks to their combination of antioxidants and sulfur. These nutrients help strengthen bones by supporting the body’s ability to retain calcium.
A study from The Journal of Medicinal Food found that garlic compounds play a role in reducing bone density loss and may lower the risk of osteoporosis.
So, if you’re looking to maintain strong and healthy bones, adding garlic scapes to your diet could be an excellent move.
#5. Aid in Digestion
Garlic scapes are a good source of fiber, which is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system.
A high-fiber diet helps promote regular bowel movements and supports gut health by fostering the growth of beneficial bacteria.
Just 100 grams of garlic scapes contain about 2 grams of fiber, which contributes to overall digestive well-being.
#6. Help Prevent Cancer
Garlic scapes contain organosulfur compounds, such as diallyl sulfides, that have been shown to have anti-cancer effects.
These compounds may help prevent the development of certain cancers by inducing the death of cancerous cells.
Research published in Phytotherapy Research demonstrated that the sulfur compounds found in garlic have potential protective effects against cancers like colorectal and stomach cancer.
By incorporating garlic scapes into your meals, you could give your body an extra line of defense against cancer development.
How to Use Garlic Scapes
You can easily incorporate garlic scapes into your diet in a variety of delicious ways:
- Roast or sauté them as a side dish or add them to stir-fries.
- Blend them into a pesto for a garlicky twist on your pasta or as a topping for grilled meats.
- Chop them finely and add them to soups, salads, or omelets for a mild, garlic-like flavor.
- Grill or pickle them for unique snacks or garnishes. To keep them fresh, store garlic scapes in the fridge for up to two weeks or freeze them for long-term storage.
Cautions and Precautions
While garlic scapes are generally safe, they can cause mild digestive discomfort in some individuals, particularly if consumed in large amounts.
If you are prone to bloating, gas, or heartburn, it’s best to start with small servings and see how your body reacts.
Additionally, if you are on blood-thinning medications like warfarin, consult with your healthcare provider, as garlic can have a mild blood-thinning effect.
Disclaimer
This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice.
Always consult your healthcare provider before making any significant changes to your diet, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking medication.
