Health Benefits of Garlic?
1. Boosts Immunity:
The Allicin in Garlic boosts the immune system by increasing the number of white blood cells that fight infection. Consuming Garlic regularly can give your body a better defense against cold and flu viruses.
2. Prevents Cancer:
Garlic contains anti-cancer properties due to its sulfur compounds, such as Allicin, protecting cellular DNA from damage caused by free radicals.
Several studies have found that consumption of Garlic reduces the risk of stomach, colon, pancreatic, and breast cancer. In contrast, another study published in “Mutation Research” found a powerful compound in Garlic called “S-allyl mercapto cysteine” to stop the growth of cancerous cells in mice with lung cancer.
Scientists have now developed a synthetic compound called DATS (diallyl trisulfide), which has the same effect as traditional garlic supplements.
3. Lowers Cholesterol:
A study published in “Phytotherapy Research” found that garlic supplementation could reduce total cholesterol, LDL (bad cholesterol), triglycerides, and increase HDL (good cholesterol). Another study published in “BMC Cardiovascular Disorders” also confirmed that elevated levels of LDL or bad cholesterol could be lowered with the intake of Garlic over 18 months.
4. Fight Heart Diseases:
Garlic contains high magnesium levels, which helps dilate blood vessels to allow the blood to bug out the body. It also keeps the heart’s rhythm steady by regulating heartbeat activity and blood pressure. This reduces the risk of heart problems such as stroke and coronary heart disease.
5. Prevents From Stroke:
The high magnesium levels in Garlic prevent clots in blood vessels and ward off strokes by thinning the blood and regulating its flow throughout the body. A study published in “BMC Cardiovascular Disorders” found that people who consumed more than four cloves of Garlic a day had reduced chances of having a stroke or myocardial infarction (Heart attack).
6. Boosts Memory And Concentration:
Garlic contains low levels of choline which acts as neurotransmitters to help improve memory, concentration, mood, and cognitive performance. It also promotes healthy brain function due to low levels,s of manganese and selenium present in it.
7. Prevents Dementia:
Those who have a low intake of choline or Garlic are more likely to suffer from Neurodegenerative diseases such as Dementia and Alzheimer’s. Consumption of either one helps acetylcholinevent this b, which in of acetylcholine plays a critical role in memory and brain function.
8. Treats Skin Infections And Diseases:
Garlic has high levels of sulfur, Allicin, and Selenium, which all help treat skin infections such as ringworm, athlete’s foot, and dandruff when used topically on the skin. It also treats fungal infections such as candida when taken internally with anti-fungal supplements or in raw form with anti-fungal foods. When applied topically on the affected area or consumed orally, Garlic on and coconut oil.
Garlic also treats and prevents skin diseases such as boils, eczema, psoriasis, or consumed orally.
9. Prevents Diabetes:
Consuming Garlic regularly can help regulate insulin secretion, which reduces blood sugar levels improving Type 2 diabetes symptoms. A study published in “BMC Complementary & Alternative Medicine” found that Allicin extracted from Garlic could stop the formation of fat cells around vital organs in the body, thus preventing obesity-induced Diabetes.
10. Heals Wounds And Burns Quickly:
Garlic contains high levels of antioxidants which have wound healing properties due to its sulfur compounds and antioxidants. A study in “The Egyptian Journal of Immunology” found that applying raw Garlic on wounds caused by accidents can help stop bleeding, fight infections, and stimulate new skin cells, thus speeding up the healing process.
11. Cures Respiratory Disorders:
Garlic contains high levels of Vitamin B6, Selenium, and Manganese, which boost immunity and prevent respiratory disorders when consumed daily in raw form or taken with supplements such as garlic pills. It helps cure coughs, colds, sinusitis, and pneumonia due to its antiviral properties.
12. Keeps Bones Healthy:
Consuming a diet rich in sulfur-containing foods such as Garlic helps keep your bones healthy by increasing calcium absorption from food sources, strengthening your bones, and reducing the risk of Osteoporosis.
Harms of Garlic:
1. Allergic Reactions:
Some people are allergic to Garlic and can develop skin irritations, redness, or inflammation when consumed.
2. May Contain Harmful Pathogens:
Garlic may contain harmful pathogens such as Ecoli, Salmonella which cause food poisoning. It is essential to handle Garlic with care and wash it thoroughly before consumption to avoid being affected by these diseases.
3. Bleeding Disorders:
Garlic contains anticoagulant properties that thin blood vessels, thus preventing the hardening of arteries, strokes, and cardiac arrests caused by blockage of the blood vessels due to excess cholesterol. Always inform your doctor about taking garlic supplements if you have a history of clots in your family or are affected by a bleeding disorder such as hemophilia.
4. Interacts With Medications:
Garlic consumption may interact with certain medications such as blood thinners, aspirin, and thyroid drugs, increasing the risk of bleeding. Always consult your doctor before consumption to ensure that consumption won’t interfere with your medication.
5. High in Calories:
Garlic contains high levels of calories in a small amount due to its carbohydrate content which can add up when consumed regularly in large quantities.
6. May Contain Harmful Ingredients:
A study conducted at Penn State University found that garlic supplements contained harmful ingredients such as arsenic, lead, and cadmium, which are poisonous when consumed regularly in large quantities for long periods over months or years. This may be due to environmental contamination and soil composition of the Garlic.
7. May Affect Fertility:
Some studies suggest that consuming large quantities of sulfur-containing foods such as Garlic can affect fertility in both men and women. It is essential to consume Garlic in moderation and avoid taking supplements if you are trying to conceive a baby or suffer from infertility.
8. Slow Blood Clotting Time:
Garlic has blood-thinning properties, reducing blood clotting times and interfering with certain medications such as aspirin and Warfarin (a popular anticoagulant drug), thus increasing the risk of bleeding.
9 . Causes Allergic Reactions:
Some people have reported skin irritations using lachydrin soap, which contains garlic extract. It is essential to always carry out a skin patch test before using any product containing garlic extracts such as lachydrin soap or shampoo, which can cause allergic reactions when used for prolonged periods.
10 . May Be Harmful During Pregnancy:
It is not recommended for pregnant women to take Garlic supplements due to the harmful effects on bones and teeth development in infants and unborn babies. Always consult your doctor before consumption during pregnancy and breastfeeding.