DHAKA: Apart from adding flavor to your food, garlic is extremely beneficial to your health, especially during winter months. A good source of calcium, phosphorus and selenium, the pungent spice is also rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin B6 and Manganese. Here's looking at some other benefits of the spice, reports the Times of India.

Increases blood circulation: garlic helps reduce blood coagulation, thereby, reducing the likelihood of blood clots and the risk of having a heart stroke.

Maintains blood pressure: according to several studies, garlic lowers the amount of cholesterol in your body and also helps control your blood pressure.

Stimulates the immune system: winter months mean the increased likelihood of contacting flu and common cold. Having garlic in your diet may reduce your chances of catching infection as the spice has antiseptic, anti-fungal and nutritive properties that boost the immune system.

Next time, you have hot soup in the winter; add some garlic in the recipe too.

Supports recovery from cancer: since it contains germanium, an anti-cancer agent, it is known to kill intestinal parasites related to cancer.

Prevents allergies: killing fungi like warts, garlic helps strengthen your body's defenses against allergies. It even helps regulate your blood sugar levels.

BDST: 2102 HRS, OCT 18, 2014