Garlic is one of those foods that is used from time to time for seasoning but the real benefits of which we do not know. Indeed, we can really classify it among the super foods so many virtues are.
Antioxidants, to accelerate recovery
Garlic contains polyphenols, and these have great antioxidant properties. And we know that antioxidants help fight the overgrowth of free radicals.
You should know that free radicals are not problematic in themselves, it is their excess production following (for example) intensive sports activity that will be harmful for the body.
It is for this reason that an antioxidant intake through the diet is necessary to prevent free radicals from taking on top, causing stiffness and discomfort during workouts.
Allicin, to help build muscle
Allicin is an organosulfur compound that causes the odor
Garlic. And it seems that allicin can also increase the
circulation of testosterone within the body (testosterone being
itself a hormone that causes muscle mass gain).
It’s minimal, of course, but it’s still interesting to know. We must always keep in mind that foods work together and that even foods that appear as “accessories” (such as spices and herbs) participate in the maintenance of good health and help us achieve our sporting goals .
Be careful though, to get the most out of garlic, it should be eaten raw and uncooked. To be added directly to an already prepared vegan plate (legumes / cereals / vegetables / salad, etc …).
Allicin always, to prevent disease
Allicin not only helps increase testosterone production, but also prevents bacterial infections and strengthens our immune system. A study carried out on 146 people was able to demonstrate it, in particular in the fight against the common cold.
In this study, one group consumed a placebo and a second
consumed a garlic supplement containing allicin. The second group had
greater ability to fight colds and better recovery
fast in case of infection.
In short, garlic is a great help for anyone training outside in the winter or even indoors but with a fairly high intensity. Consuming garlic helps keep your training volume high, and therefore progress faster.
There are therefore real interests in consuming garlic as an athlete, as much to prevent stiffness and generally accelerate recovery as to help the body regain its full health after have caught an infection.
Once again, don’t forget to eat it raw (after going through a garlic press, for example) to get the maximum benefit! To go further and download your free guide with 5 tips for getting started with vegan sports nutrition, click here . Train with the heart, eat with the heart.