One the best ways to reap the benefits of garlic is eating it raw.
But that’s not the only way to add more of it to your diet.
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cardiologist and founder of the Clean Program
That said, some of the latter are true, and some are a bit exaggerated.
Garlic is packed full of nutrients and adds intense flavor to any dish.
Its the most potent when used in its raw form, Lutzi says.
Eating raw garlic has its perks after all, especially considering its associated with several health benefits.
This includes fighting infections and boosting the cardiovascular system.
So, how many garlic cloves per day to reap the benefits?
Thats right, garlic can be good for your blood pressure and generally support your cardiovascular health.
What does garlic do for the body?
Whats more, its anti-inflammatory properties helps protect the body from damaging free radicals and oxidative stress.
cardiologist and founder of the Clean Program
Garlic has long been known toreduce cholesterol and normalize blood pressure, Petersen says.
It may help protect against osteoporosis
With aging, the risk for osteoporosis increases, particularly for women.
Dr. Petersen says there is some evidence to suggest that consuming garlic can help protect against it.
Some studies also showed it toslow the effects of osteoarthritis, she says.
While the preliminary studies are promising, more research needs to be done to confirm this connection.
She adds that garlic allicin is also anti-inflammatory and rich in antioxidants, which is good for the skin.
Garlic can also be attributed to causing some rather uncomfortable gastrointestinal-related issues.
People who are sensitive to high FODMAP food may want to avoid foods like garlic and onion.
Possible side effects of raw garlic
1.
Some people may experience heartburn, burning in the mouth, gas, nausea, diarrhea, or vomiting.
It can have an effect on your bodys scent
Body odor is another side-effect of loading up on garlic.
It may cause burning or irritation
Eating raw garlic is not as easy as it sounds for some folks.
It can produce changes in intestinal flora, she adds.
If youre sensitive, she recommends wearing gloves when chopping or handling it.
Additionally, managing your raw garlic intake is important.
When in doubt, go small, and if it seems to agree with your body, thats great.
Raw garlic might not be right for everyoneand thats okay.
Is it better to chew or swallow garlic?
Chewing garlic is believed to release more allicin and provide greater potential health benefits.
However, chewing raw garlic can be intense and difficult to tolerate due to its pungent taste and odor.
Will I get all the health benefits of eating garlic if I swallow it whole?
Need tips onhow to cut garlic?
Of course, we totally understand that even the thought of consuming raw garlic might make you cringe.
Does garlic detox your body?
There is little scientific evidence to support the claim that garlic can detoxify the body.
This is partly because the language and terminology around something detoxing your body are not medically accurate.
In that sense, garlic supports liver function, which supports detoxification.
Herbal tonic with raw garlic recipe
IngredientsRaw garlicHoneyApple cider vinegar
1.
Roughly chop multiple cloves of garlic and add to the small mason jar.2.
Fill at least one-fourth of the jar full of chopped garlic.
Next, pour in equal parts honey and apple cider vinegar, enough to cover the garlic.3.
Let this mixture sit in a dark pantry or cupboard for at least a week, shaking daily.4.
After a week, strain out the garlic or leave it for a more robust concoction.
Take one tablespoon daily for immune defense throughout cold and flu season.
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