Aging is usually associated with a decline in artery function, but garlic and onion can turn that around.

This video was originally published on NutritionFacts.org and republished with permission. NutritionFacts.org

As we grow older, our arteries tend to stiffen, which has a negative effect on artery health. Balance is key in bodily health and the stiffening of our blood vessels is especially concerning. Lacking the ability to expand, a stiff artery is a surefire way to increase blood pressure. An increase in blood pressure consequently can result in extremely dangerous conditions such as (but not limited to) renal problems and strokes.

As frightening as this prospect is, there are safe ways to counteract the effects aging has on our arteries and what’s more, some of them are delicious. For example, studies revealed that consuming less than a quarter teaspoon of garlic powder a day can improve artery stiffness and help to keep artery function optimal. Garlic, along with other allium plants such as onions, shallots and leeks, has been studied for years for their benefits for years and studies conclude that these wonderful plants can help with a number of cardiovascular issues aside from helping artery function. Some of the traits these plants carry are anti-oxidant, anti-thrombotic, fibrinolytic and positive blood pressure effects.

Eating these plants raw, especially garlic, is the way to extract as much beneficial properties as possible, but there are tips and tricks to getting the most out of the cooked variety as well. For example, the positive effects of garlic are severely hampered by the act of cooking. But, by crushing the garlic and letting it sit for 10 minutes prior to putting it on the heat, the enzymes responsible for the health benefits are retained a bit further. To enhance garlic’s effect on artery health even more, add raw garlic juice to cooked garlic and it will restore the vegetable’s various healing traits.