We all know garlic adds a bold flavour to dishes, but did you know it can also boost your health and fitness? Today, I’m sharing my story of how I’ve incorporated garlic into my pre-workout routine and embraced its unique benefits. Garlic, Mast o Khiar (yogurt and cucumber dip), and exercise have transformed my health journey.
The health kick of garlic
Garlic isn’t just a kitchen staple; it’s a superfood that has been used for centuries to boost health. Ancient Greek Olympians consumed garlic to enhance performance, and modern studies suggest it may improve oxygen capacity during workouts. It’s also packed with antioxidants that reduce inflammation and support overall wellness.
- Boosts oxygen capacity during workouts.
- Packed with antioxidants to reduce inflammation.
- Traditional use in Gilan to ward off colds, stress, and arthritis.
Gilan’s climate and cuisine
The fertile, humid climate of Gilan in Northern Iran produces vibrant, flavourful, and nutritious ingredients. Garlic is central, whether fresh, pickled, or roasted, alongside aubergine, fresh herbs, and fish from the Caspian Sea.
- Garlic – the star ingredient.
- Aubergine – versatile and nutritious.
- Fresh Herbs – add aroma and depth.
- Fish – lean protein from the Caspian Sea.
Learn more about Gilan’s cuisine and its superfoods.
Back to the west
Mast o Khiar, the Persian yogurt and cucumber dip, is often compared to Greek Tzatziki. The Iranian version uses unique herbs like Sabze Namak or Dalar. Both are refreshing and complement a variety of dishes.
Fitness and garlic
Who says you can’t enjoy garlic and still hit the gym? Its health benefits make it a worthy addition to your diet. I like to combine it with exercise, Mast o Khiar, and Persian cuisine for a holistic approach to wellbeing.
Mast o Khiar recipe
Ingredients:
- 950g pot of Fage Greek yogurt (thick and creamy)
- 2 cucumbers, finely grated
- 1 tbsp dried mint or Sabze Namak
- Garlic (a whole bulb, or adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Spoon the yogurt into a bowl.
- Finely grate the cucumbers and mix into the yogurt.
- Crush garlic cloves and add to the mix.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve and enjoy! Nooshe Joon (Bon Appétit).
- Garlic may enhance oxygen capacity and boost workout performance.
- Gilan cuisine uses garlic daily for both flavour and health benefits.
- Mast o Khiar is a refreshing Persian dip rich in probiotics and herbs.
- Exercise and nutrition together support energy, wellbeing, and fitness.
What’s your favourite way to incorporate garlic into your diet? Share your tips in the comments below or explore more health and fitness posts on my blog.
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Saffron and Cyrus is a Newcastle-based family lifestyle blog, covering health, wellness, days out, travel, reviews, recipes and more from our family life.
The blog is written by new mum over 40, Aranda, with input from hubby H and son, Little C.
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