Aged Garlic for Colds and Flu

Move over chicken soup. It looks like Mother Nature has decided to one up you in the cold fighting department. In a recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Nutrition, researchers have found that individuals taking an Aged Garlic Supplement were able to effectively fight off cold and flu symptoms better than those who were taking a placebo. 

After taking an aged garlic supplement for 90 days, the garlic group wound up having more immune system cells (gamma-delta T cells and NK Cells) in their system than the placebo group. They also displayed a 21% reduction in cold and flu symptoms and were found to recover from their ailments 61% faster. This translated into less work days missed due to sickness (with the exception of “nicedayitis”) and more overall productivity due to milder symptoms. 

Aged Garlic Extract, also known as AGE, is a dietary garlic supplement that has been aged for over 20 months. Unlike fresh garlic (which is still good for you) Aged garlic goes through some molecular changes that not only mellows its garlic taste but also allows for the development of certain sulphur containing substances which are thought to be responsible for the supplements unique health benefits. These sulphuric compounds are thought to increase the glutathione levels in the  immune system cells thus making them more effective at patrolling the body and rooting out cold and flu bugs before they can start any serious trouble.  

On top of helping people make it through the cold and flu season, taking aged garlic supplements is also believed to be very beneficial to overall heart health. It has been shown to slow the clogging process and improve overall circulation. The antioxidant power of the garlic is also believed to help protect the body from the damaging effects of free radicals, slowing down the aging process and cancerous cell growth. 

You can find aged garlic at most health food stores and you can either take it as a supplement or even cook with it.

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