Health benefits
According to Dr. Anjali Tiwari, a nutritionist at Apollo Spectra Hospital ( Kanpur, India), eating two cloves of garlic per morning can be a valuable addition to a healthy diet.
Garlic contains bioactive compounds such as allicin, sulfur and antioxidants, which help bring many benefits to the body. Dr. Tiwari said that regular consumption of garlic has been shown to be beneficial for health, including:
- Reduces cholesterol and triglycerides.
- Improve cardiovascular health by preventing plaque buildup in the arteries.
- Regulates blood pressure through the dilation effect.
- Boosts immunity thanks to its natural antibacterial and viral properties.
- Detoxify the body, support liver function: The sulfur compounds in garlic stimulate liver function more effectively, support the detoxification process and protect the liver.
- Reduces inflammation and prevents chronic diseases such as cancer or neurodegeneration: Garlic is rich in antioxidants, helps neutralize free radicals, reduces inflammation, slows down the aging process and supports cancer prevention.
Dr. Anjali Tiwari also emphasizes the role of allicin, a powerful active ingredient in garlic, which has high nutritional value, acting as a natural antibiotic, while supporting cancer prevention.
Notes when consuming raw garlic
Consuming too much raw garlic can cause bloating, digestive discomfort, bad breath, and even stomach irritation in people with acid reflux or ulcers. In particular, for people taking anticoagulants, garlic can increase the risk of bleeding due to its blood thinning properties.
To maximize the benefits, you should eat fresh garlic as part of a balanced diet. And importantly, consult your doctor if you have an underlying disease or are receiving medication.