Nutrition alert: Here’s what a 100-gram serving of cloves contains

Cloves, those tiny brown buds with an unmistakable aroma, are more than just a fragrant addition to your pumpkin pie. Packed with powerful compounds and boasting a long history in traditional medicine, these potent little gems offer a surprising array of health benefits that extend far beyond the kitchen counter.

Whether you’re looking to boost your immunity, fight inflammation, or improve your dental health, cloves might just be the hidden key to unlocking a healthier you, according to Dr Sanjay Kumar, general physician, Cygnus Laxmi Hospital.

Nutrition Profile of Cloves

The nutritional profile of 100 grams of cloves is as follows:

– Calories: 274 kcal
– Carbohydrates: 65 grams
– Dietary Fibre: 33 grams
– Sugars: 2.4 grams
– Protein: 6 grams
– Fat: 13 grams
– Vitamin C
– Vitamin K
– Vitamin E
– Vitamin B6
– Calcium
– Magnesium
– Iron
– Potassium
– Zinc

What are its health benefits?

Oral Health: Cloves contain eugenol, a compound with antibacterial properties, making them beneficial for oral health. They can help alleviate toothaches, reduce oral bacteria, and relieve bad breath.

Digestive Health: Cloves aid digestion by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes. They can alleviate gas, bloating, and indigestion, promoting overall gastrointestinal health.

Cloves aid digestion  (Source: Freepik)

Anti-inflammatory: Cloves possess anti-inflammatory properties attributed to compounds like eugenol and flavonoids. They may help reduce inflammation associated with conditions like arthritis and promote joint health.

Antioxidant: Cloves are rich in antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and free radicals, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.

Blood Sugar Control: Some studies suggest that cloves may help regulate blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity, making them potentially beneficial for individuals with diabetes.

Respiratory Health: Cloves have been used in traditional medicine to relieve respiratory conditions like coughs, asthma, and bronchitis due to their expectorant and antimicrobial properties.

Pain Relief: Clove oil or cloves themselves can be used topically to alleviate pain, such as headaches or muscle soreness, thanks to their analgesic properties.

Can diabetics consume cloves?

Dr Kumar said diabetics can consume cloves, and they may even benefit from their potential blood sugar-regulating properties. However, moderation is key, as excessive consumption may lead to adverse effects.

Is it beneficial for pregnant women?

Dr Kumar warned that pregnant women should consult with their healthcare provider before using clove supplements. (Source: Rep/ File)

Cloves are generally considered safe for pregnant women when consumed in moderation. However, Dr Kumar warned that pregnant women should consult with their healthcare provider before using clove supplements or consuming them in large amounts.

Things to keep in mind

While cloves are generally safe for consumption, some individuals may be allergic to them, leading to allergic reactions ranging from mild to severe.

Overconsumption of cloves or clove oil can cause gastrointestinal discomfort, nausea, or mouth irritation, warned Dr Kumar. Additionally, cloves contain natural sugars, but the amount consumed is typically minimal and not a concern for most people.

Myths and facts

Myth 1: Cloves can cure diabetes.
Fact: While cloves may help regulate blood sugar levels, they cannot cure diabetes.

Myth 2: Cloves can cure cancer.
Fact: While cloves possess antioxidant properties that may reduce the risk of certain diseases, including cancer, they cannot cure cancer on their own.

Disclaimer: The copyright of this article belongs to the original author. Reposting this article is solely for the purpose of information dissemination and does not constitute any investment advice. If there is any infringement, please contact us immediately. We will make corrections or deletions as necessary. Thank you.