Rosalee Brown
Onion and garlic are two herbs that most Jamaican kitchens cannot do without because of the characteristic flavour they impart to our cuisine. But did you know that apart from the wonderful flavour which they impart, they also have health/medicinal qualities?
The Egyptians have revered onions, a member of the allium genus, as far back as 3500 B.C. Its sulphur-containing compound is linked to lowering the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease and some cancers. Onions are high in water, low in calories and rich in vitamin C. There are many varieties of onions available and another way to consume onions, instead of cooking, is to put rings of sweet, purple onions in raw salads or on sandwiches for that extra kick. Other members of the allium genus are escallion, leeks and garlic.
Antibacterial garlic
Garlic, also touted for its health benefit as antibacterial and cholesterol lowering and for its positive effect on high blood pressure, has been given a boost by the result of a recent study. The University of Alabama at Birmingham study by Gloria Benavides shows that raw garlic juice, when digested, produces compounds which act on red blood cells causing them to produce hydrogen sulphide. Hydrogen sulphide can act as vasodilators, increasing blood flow. The result of this study shows that garlic has a role to play in reducing cardiovascular disease risk.
It can be risky
Although garlic has health benefits, these effects can be disadvantageous in special circumstances. For example, persons taking the blood thinning medication warfin or coumadin are at increased risk for bleeding with high intake of garlic.
Keep the zest in your eating by being informed and making wise decisions.
Rosalee M. Brown is a registered dietitian/nutritionist who operates Integrated Nutrition and Health Services; email: yourhealth@gleanerjm.com.
Tips for adding garlic to your meal
Grate and mix with a small amount of oil and stir in pasta, add meat, beans and fresh herbs for a salad.
Grate and mix in balsamic vinegar, pour over fresh salad and add grated Parmesan cheese.
Grate and add to a bean, lentil or peas paste, season with fresh herbs and serve on your favourite cracker or toast.
Grate and add to a fish paste with a hint of pepper.
Cut raw fresh garlic cloves and pour on some olive oil, bottle and refrigerate. This garlic flavoured oil can be a great addition to salads or on any other dish where a splash of oil will enhance flavour and taste.
