by POPSUGAR Fitness 11

We all know that garlic is chock full of health benefits, but don't chop it though. Oh no, to reap the benefits of garlic you need to crush it. It seems that crushing it conserves its healthy anti-clotting compounds.

Not only that, but you should hold off cooking it for 10 minutes after you have smashed or pressed it. According to the American Institute for Cancer Research in Washington, D.C., leaving the prepared garlic out in the open for 10 minutes allows certain enzymes to kick in and unleash garlic's alleged cancer-fighting prowess.

It is also suggested that you only cook garlic for 3 - 6 minutes. Sounds like we all might have to alter some recipes a bit to save those garlic compounds.

Fit's Tip: I suggest starting with prepping the garlic when you are cooking. Peel and smash all the cloves you are going to use first, then prep the rest of your ingredients.