The Benefits and Risks of Garlic Consumption: A Comprehensive Guide

2023-11-12 19:52:37

Garlic is a popular and very famous species throughout the world. It is widely recognized for its use in cooking, as it allows you to achieve particular flavors. However, it is also widely used for other purposes, such as spiritual and medicinal purposes.

Article ‘Garlic in health and illness’, from the University of Cambridge, highlights that more than 3,000 studies have shown that garlic has important properties that help prevent and treat various diseases, thus recognizing the traditional uses that have been given to this species.

One of these traditional uses is the garlic diet, which consists of consuming a clove of this species at least once a day for a month. But what are the real effects of this consumption on health? Experts respond.

Positive effects of garlic scientifically proven

In the academic review carried out in the Cambridge study, the historical use of garlic to treat a variety of diseases and body pains, such as cancer, constipation, diabetes, colic, respiratory problems, among others, is highlighted. .

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According to United States National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCIH, in English) the study cited by the British university, daily consumption of garlic has important positive effects on long-term health. According to what is highlighted in the cited studies, these are some:

It can reduce cholesterol and lipoprotein levels. It is worth remembering that a person with a high level of lipoprotein has a high risk of suffering from heart disease and stroke. It can be useful to control high blood pressure. It is very nutritional and does not represent as many calories. It is a good source of magnesium, vitamin B6, vitamin C, selenium and fiber. Some research suggests that the antioxidants in garlic can significantly reduce oxidative stress, which is a condition that occurs when there are too many unstable molecules in the body and not enough antioxidants to eliminate them. This, in the long term, may affect aging and the appearance of chronic inflation, cancer or other diseases. Several studies have suggested that garlic supplements may directly benefit people with Alzheimer’s disease, as they may help protect against cognitive decline. However, on this point, more research is still needed.

How much garlic should you eat to be beneficial?

The dietitian Rachael Ajmera of New York University explains that, although there is no official general recommendation on how much garlic you should eat, several studies show that consuming 1 to 2 cloves (between 3 to 6 grams) per day can have health benefits.

Likewise, it is recommended that it not be consumed raw, but cooked to avoid side effects such as garlic breath, digestive problems and acid reflux.

In this sense, Ajmera also warns that we must monitor the side effects that this food produces on the body. If significant changes are seen, it is best to reduce consumption. In addition, the dietician points out that if the person has any underlying health problems or is taking medications, it is best to talk to the doctor before making changes to the diet.

Risks of eating too much garlic

Although garlic has relevant benefits in the body, the NCCIH highlights that negative effects can develop if consumed in exaggerated proportions. In addition to the effects mentioned by Ajmera, such as bad breath, reflux and digestive problems, garlic can also increase bleeding risks.

According to the organization, if the person takes an anticoagulant, such as warfin, or if they need surgery, it is best to tell their doctor about their intentions with consuming garlic. The reason for this risk is due to the antithrombotic properties of that species, which can prevent the formation of blood clots.

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