April is National Garlic Month!
The three secrets of French cuisine are butter, butter, and more butter — but do you know the secret to Italian cooking? The answer is garlic, and April just happens to be National Garlic Month! Discover several amazing health benefits of the famous pungent plant.
High in Nutrition/Low in Calories
An ounce of garlic adds about 42 calories to a person’s meal, but it packs an extra punch. With 1.8 grams of protein, 9 grams of carbohydrates, and generous amounts of vitamins and minerals, a pinch of garlic provides necessary nutrients for the day without the unnecessary calories.
Reduce Blood Pressure
In a recent study, patients with cardiovascular disease were given an aged garlic extract at doses of 600-1,500 mg. It was just as effective as leading drugs in reducing blood pressure!
Prevent Dementia
Garlic contains important antioxidants that support the body’s mechanisms against oxidative damage from free radicals. By taking high doses of garlic supplements, patients have shown to reduce oxidative stress, decrease cholesterol levels, and prevent common brain diseases like dementia.
Improve Athletic Performance
Traditionally, garlic was used to reduce fatigue and was even administered to Olympic athletes in ancient greece. The health benefits vary, and while it has been proven to improve the athletic performance for some, some subjects report no change.
Cooking With Garlic is Fun and Delicious
Cooking with garlic is fun, delicious, and easy! The powerful plant adds flavor to almost any meal, and most Italian recipes include it within the ingredients. Try adding more garlic to your dishes, and see if it improves your health!
VISIT BASTA PASTA
For over 12 years, Basta Pasta has been providing Marylanders with delicious Italian specials cooked from fresh, delicious, high-quality ingredients. Enjoy a taste of classic Italian food with spectacular pasta dishes, unlimited salad and breadsticks, and sumptuous fine Italian wines. To make a reservation at our Timonium, Fallston, Perry Hall, or Eldersburg location, contact us online or give us a call at the location-specific phone number listed here. To find out more about our menu, follow us on Facebook and Twitter!
Don’t feel like going out? Order our signature crab cakes online and enjoy Basta Pasta in the comfort of your dining room table.