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Even better, those who develop a cold generally report less time with symptoms. Some experts believe more research is needed, but those concerned about illness may find desirable benefits. Lowers Cholesterol People with high cholesterol levels are at a higher risk of heart disease, but garlic supplements may reduce the total LDL (bad cholesterol) in our bloodstream. Several studies show the impact could be as much as a 10% or 15% reduction. Further, garlic achieves this without impacting HDL, the good cholesterol we all need. Reduces High Blood Pressure High blood pressure (hypertension) contributes to several serious medical problems, including stroke, heart attack, and heart failure. In fact, high blood pressure causes more than 13% of worldwide deaths! Fortunately, studies show that consuming four cloves of garlic daily or its equivalent can significantly in the wild and others they bought at a local store. At one point, the family had a boa constrictor. The boys loved feeding it mice, but the family’s only girl was terrified and would shove a towel under the space between her door every night — just in case. Once, the snake escaped, and the family found it hiding in a wall after hours of looking. Like Sierra, Kevin remembers a sense of pride in caring for his pets, including a classroom rat he took home during one summer vacation. It was a taste of responsibility and an introduction to caring for
others, which would serve him well later in life.
We’re used to getting bad news about our favorite food indulgences, so it’s particularly exciting when something tasty offers health benefits. Ancient civilizations frequently used garlic as medicine, and modern science suggests they were onto something. Research indicates that consuming raw garlic is good for us in many ways. Here are a few of the potential benefits. Boosts Immunity Multiple studies indicate that a daily garlic supplement can significantly reduce the risk of catching a cold or flu virus compared to a placebo. 4 HEALTH BENEFITS OF GARLIC More Than a Vampire Repellent Later, they took in a German shepherd-Rottweiler crossbreed named Dylan. Dylan was enormous and highly aggressive to anyone outside the family. Kevin’s dad even called him “a lawsuit waiting to happen.” Dylan would get so worked up about a passing car that he’d run directly into the side of it! Kevin’s parents once had to pay to fix a resulting dent. Then the family’s boys went through a reptile phase. They had lizards and turtles, some of which they found
reduce hypertension. Research even suggests garlic may be as effective as some prescription medications. Reduces Dementia Risk Oxidation contributes to the aging process of our cells, which plays a role in Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia. Therefore, some experts believe exposure to antioxidants might help reduce our risk of developing these conditions. And garlic is full of antioxidants — the same factor behind its blood pressure and cholesterol benefits. Still, more research is needed, so take this garlic advice with a grain of salt. While garlic is extremely popular — the average American consumes roughly 2 pounds yearly — the vegetable is not for everyone. If you dislike the taste, smell, or bloating associated with garlic, you can purchase over-the-counter dietary supplements. Just be sure to confirm the safety and correct dosage with your doctor. With histories like these, it’s probably surprising that we don’t have pets now. But animals mostly lived outdoors where and when we grew up, so it’s difficult to fathom indoor animals — especially in our already full house! But the kids regularly beg for a dog or a cat, and we’re sure we’ll cave eventually. If and when a furry family member comes home with us, we’ll share all the details. –Sierra and Kevin Bennett
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