Is Garlic one of Your 5 a day? The Health Benefits of Garlic

Ah, the age-old question: does garlic count towards your 5-a-day? Unfortunately, garlic, while incredibly nutritious, doesn’t quite fit the bill in terms of quantity. To officially count as one of your 5-a-day portions of fruits and veggies, the UK guidelines suggest a portion should weigh around 80 grams.

Here’s the garlic twist: a typical serving of garlic used in cooking is much smaller, usually around 1 to 3 grams. So, while garlic brings a lot to the table—like antioxidants and immune-boosting properties—it won’t single-handedly fill your 5-a-day vegetable quota. But fear not! At PRESS, we love garlic and include it in all our meals for its flavour and health benefits.

Is Garlic a Vegetable?

Technically, garlic is a bulb, but in the kitchen, it plays the role of a vegetable. It adds depth and flavour to dishes like veggies do, making it a versatile and nutritious addition to your diet. So, whether you see it as a bulb or a veggie, one thing’s for sure: garlic is a culinary superstar.

What is Garlic Good for? Here are the Health Benefits of Garlic

Boosts Immune System: 

Garlic isn't just for keeping vampires away—it’s also great for boosting your immune system! Packed with allicin and other compounds, garlic helps fend off colds and flu, supporting your body's natural defences.

Reduces Blood Pressure:

Studies suggest garlic may help lower blood pressure, which is fantastic news for your heart health. It’s a flavorful way to add a little extra love to your cardiovascular system.

Antioxidant Properties:

Fight off free radicals with garlic’s powerful antioxidants! These compounds protect your cells from oxidative stress, keeping you feeling healthy and vibrant

How Much Garlic is one of your 5 a day?

One portion of fruit and vegetables is fist-sized. If you have the appetite to eat an amount of garlic equal to the size of your fist it absolutely qualifies as one of your five a day, but even the most ardent garlic obsessive may struggle to consume that amount in one sitting.

Most garlic cloves are about the size of a fingertip, though, and that's enough to give flavour to 2–4 portions of vegetables, and easily complete your 5 a day.

Easy meal ideas

From sizzling stir-fries to roasted delights, garlic shines in every cuisine. Try our favourite recipes like jewelled brussels & shallots in mandarin, thyme & garlic-infused oil for a deliciously healthy dose.

Garlic FAQ's

• Does Cooking Garlic Destroy Its Benefits? Cooking garlic can reduce some of its health benefits, like allicin content, but it still retains other valuable nutrients and flavours. So go ahead, cook with confidence!

• Is Powdered Garlic Good for You? Fresh garlic usually packs more nutritional punch compared to powdered varieties. For maximum benefits, opt for fresh whenever possible.

• Can You Eat Raw Garlic? Absolutely! Raw garlic has higher allicin content, which offers additional health perks. Just be mindful—it’s potent, so start with small amounts.

•  Is Garlic a Natural Antibiotic?Garlic’s antimicrobial properties make it a natural fighter against bacteria and viruses, showing promise as a complementary health ally.

How to get More Garlic in Your Diet with Press

At PRESS, we’re passionate about infusing garlic into our meals for its flavour and health benefits. While it may not check off your 5-a-day requirement alone, it’s a delicious way to add nutrition to every bite.

Explore our menu to see how we make garlic a star ingredient in our nutritious offerings.