Garlic Benefits to Health And Its Side Effects

Garlic offers a multitude of health benefits supported by scientific research. Here we are going to discuss more details.

Garlic Benefits to Health

Immune System Support: Garlic, particularly aged garlic extract, has been shown to boost the immune system, potentially reducing the severity of colds and flu.

Heart Health: Garlic can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease. It may also act as an anticoagulant, further benefiting heart health.

Antibacterial Properties: Garlic contains allicin, which acts as a natural antibiotic, potentially inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria.

Cognitive Health: The antioxidants in garlic may protect against cognitive decline associated with aging, potentially reducing the risk of conditions like Alzheimer's disease and dementia.

Exercise Performance: While more research is needed, garlic has shown potential in improving physical performance, with some studies suggesting it may increase oxygen capacity during exercise.

Garlic as a valuable addition to a healthy diet, offering a range of protective and supportive effects on overall well-being.

Garlic Side Effects

Garlic, a commonly used herb in cooking, has several health benefits, but it can also cause various side effects, especially when consumed in large quantities or in supplement form. Here are some of the common side effects associated with garlic consumption:

Common Side Effects

Bad breath and body odor: Garlic's sulfur compounds can cause unpleasant breath and body odor.

Gastrointestinal issues: Garlic can cause nausea, vomiting, gas, heartburn, diarrhea, and gastrointestinal upset, especially when consumed raw.

Allergic reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions, including hives, skin swelling, asthma, bleeding, pink eye (conjunctivitis), and severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis).

Skin irritation: Raw garlic applied to the skin can cause severe skin irritation, redness, swelling, or blistering.

Bleeding risk: Garlic supplements may increase the risk of bleeding, especially for individuals taking anticoagulant medications or undergoing surgery.

Serious Side Effects

Severe heart symptoms: Garlic supplements may cause fast or pounding heartbeats, fluttering in the chest, shortness of breath, and sudden dizziness.

Severe nervous system reaction: Garlic can cause a severe nervous system reaction with stiff muscles, high fever, sweating, confusion, fast or uneven heartbeats, tremors, and feeling like you might pass out.

Severe eye symptoms: Garlic can cause blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain or swelling, or seeing halos around lights.

Interactions with Medications

Garlic supplements can interact with various medications, including blood thinners, HIV medications, and NSAIDs, which may affect their efficacy or increase the risk of bleeding.

Precautions and Contraindications

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: The safety of garlic supplements during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well established.

Bleeding disorders: Garlic supplements may not be suitable for individuals with bleeding disorders or those undergoing surgery.

Gastrointestinal conditions: Garlic may exacerbate gastrointestinal conditions like inflammatory bowel disease.