Garlic has been considered the “Wonder Drug”. Many studies conducted on the properties of garlic have shown that eating it on an empty stomach makes it a powerful natural antibiotic. It is believed to be one of the best disease preventive foods, based on its potent and varied effects.
What does Garlic contain that makes it beneficial?
Garlic is a stong antibiotic because it produces allicin, an organosulfur compound, that is created when garlic is crushed, chopped, or minced. These techniques break down the membranes within the cloves, thus producing allicin. Allicin is extremely unstable and quickly breaks down into other sulfur-containing compounds such as diallyl disulfide. These compounds react with the human body in complex ways and appear to lower blood pressure and reduce arterial fatty plaque build-up.
Why is it good to eat garlic at all?
Garlic is a potent antibiotic. It has antioxidant, anti-atherogenic, and anti-apoptotic properties.
- It stabilizes blood pressure
- It reduces inflammation
- It reduces the risks of clots as it is a blood thinner
- It is a neuroprotective agent and so helps relieve nerve disorders
- It strengthens the immune system
- It prevents atherosclerosis (anti-atherogenic)
- It is efficient in treating stomach problems, such as diarrhea
In many alternative and traditional forms of medicine, garlic is considered to be a great detox food that can cure many ailments. Many claim that garlic can cleanse the body from parasites and worms, prevent and cure diabetes, depression and even some types of cancer.
Why should it be eaten on an empty stomach?
Eating a little garlic right before breakfast preps your stomach to effectively combat the bacteria and toxins that you subsequently ingest. It works as a very strong antioxidant and antibiotic, making it, essentially, a natural and healthy filter for your stomach. On an empty stomach, its effects are maximized since there is no other food present in your stomach to interact with it or interfere in its processes.
What if you eat it in your food or after a meal?
There are no known harmful effects of consuming garlic, in moderation, in your food or after a meal. However, the likelihood of the reactions of allicin being masked by other food components increases.
How is it best consumed?
Garlic is best eaten crushed (raw or cooked) as crushing damages the cells and stimulates the release of allicin. It should be consumed within an hour or two after crushing. Strong stomach acids might lower the effects of allicin, so having a glass of water first will help increase the stomach pH slightly.
Baking or roasting whole cloves or heads of garlic won’t produce the desired allicin. Heat denatures, or destroys, allicin and its resulting sulfur-containing compounds. This is why recipes that involve cooking garlic on a high flame for long periods of time blocks out its benefits. However, if you need to cook garlic, just ensure that it is not overcooked.
Also, if you’re concerned about stinky garlic breath, you can eat it at night before you brush your teeth.
What are the Side Effects of Garlic?
Garlic has been used safely in cooking for eons now. However, its consumption in excess can cause some side effects, in addition to strong breath and body odors.
- It occasionally causes allergies that can range from mild irritation to potentially life-threatening problems.
- Ingestion of fresh garlic bulbs, extracts, or oil on an empty stomach may occasionally cause heartburn, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
- Some studies suggest that garlic can lower blood sugar levels and increase insulin.
- It has been shown to interfere with several prescription drugs.
- Garlic bulbs are sometimes contaminated with the bacterium Clostridium botulinum that can produce harmful toxins.
What are the precautions you should take when consuming raw garlic?
- It acts as a natural blood thinner so should be avoided by pregnant women, people about to undergo a surgery, and people taking blood thinners.
- Do not consume raw garlic if you have tested allergic for it.
- Immediately stop consumption if you experience any skin rashes, high body temperature, or headaches. Consult a doctor immediately.
