

Have you ever tried eating raw garlic? It may cause you bad breath, but in return, you will get amazing health benefits. In this report, we review the benefits of eating raw garlic and its side effects on the body, according to the Dalili Medical website.
There is no specific dosage for raw garlic, but some studies suggest that eating 1 to 2 cloves daily can have health benefits.
Unfortunately, cooking garlic significantly reduces its content of active compounds and vitamins. For example, vitamins B and C in garlic are water-soluble, making them susceptible to breaking down during cooking or boiling. Cooking or boiling can also lead to the loss of some minerals such as manganese and calcium. There are some tips to reduce vitamin loss while boiling garlic, such as steaming it and reducing the cooking time to preserve vitamin C.
Raw garlic has much greater nutritional benefits than cooked, which is why it is often used as a popular addition to salads and vegetables.
Here's how to start your day with garlic:
1. Make sure the garlic is fresh, as allicin compounds are greatly affected when using old garlic.
2. Choose the cloves you want to eat and keep the rest in the refrigerator.
3. Cut the cloves into small pieces and eat them in batches, because eating large amounts of garlic on an empty stomach may cause nausea or heartburn.
4. Swallow garlic with a glass of water. Due to its strong flavour, chewing it may not be preferred by many, so it is preferable to swallow a small piece with lukewarm water, which also has many benefits.
There is no problem with eating raw garlic, especially since some studies indicate that roasting, heating, or pickling it can significantly reduce its nutritional value.
Eating a clove or two of garlic is an ideal choice to benefit from its many health benefits. However, you should be careful not to eat larger amounts than recommended, as this may lead to problems such as acidity, heartburn, or even bleeding. One clove of garlic contains a group of important nutrients such as manganese, vitamin C, selenium, fiber, calcium, copper, phosphorus, iron, vitamin B1, vitamin B6, and potassium.
Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties and acting as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. It can help lower cholesterol levels and blood pressure, promote heart health, aid in digestion, and may possess anti-cancer properties.
Garlic contains compounds such as allicin and alliin, which enhance the strength of the immune system. These compounds stimulate the production of white blood cells in the body, which enhances the body's ability to confront infections and diseases.
Yes, research has shown that garlic can contribute to lowering blood pressure, especially in people who suffer from high blood pressure. Garlic contains allicin, which helps relax and expand blood vessels, which improves blood flow and reduces pressure on the walls of the arteries.
The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of garlic, as well as its ability to lower blood pressure and cholesterol, help promote heart health. It also contributes to the prevention of atherosclerosis and reduces the risk of heart disease.
Yes, garlic helps improve digestion by stimulating the production of digestive juices and reducing inflammation in the digestive system, making it easier to eliminate waste. It also has antimicrobial properties that help maintain the balance of gut flora.
Yes, some research has shown that eating garlic regularly may help reduce total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels. The exact mechanism is still being researched, but it is believed to be due to the antioxidant properties of garlic.
Garlic contains compounds such as allicin, which has been linked to reducing the growth of some cancer cells. It is also rich in antioxidants that protect cells from damage that may lead to cancer. However, more studies are needed to confirm these effects.
Some studies suggest that garlic may help regulate blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for people with or at risk for diabetes. However, these results are still preliminary and need further research.
Raw garlic contains higher levels of allicin, the active compound responsible for many of garlic's health benefits. Cooking may reduce the amount of allicin, but some benefits are still present in cooked garlic.
While the exact amount can vary, some experts suggest eating one or two cloves of raw garlic daily. However, it is always best to consult a healthcare professional based on individual health needs.
In general, garlic is considered safe for most people, but it may cause some side effects such as bad breath, a burning feeling in the mouth or stomach, heartburn, gas, nausea, body odor, and diarrhea. Individuals with bleeding disorders or who will be undergoing surgery should use caution when taking garlic due to its potential blood-thinning effects.
Some research suggests that garlic may have a positive effect on bone health by increasing levels of estrogen in women, a hormone that helps maintain bone health. However, more studies are still needed to confirm these benefits.
Garlic is traditionally used as a treatment for colds and flu. Its immune-boosting properties can help boost the body's defenses against these common diseases.
Both raw and cooked garlic can provide health benefits, but raw garlic contains higher levels of the active compound allicin. It is recommended to crush or chop the garlic and leave it for a few minutes before eating it to increase allicin production.
Yes, studies have shown that garlic has antimicrobial properties, as it can prevent the growth of bacteria, yeasts, fungi, parasites, and some viruses.
Garlic's antioxidant properties can help protect the skin from oxidation. Some people use garlic topically to treat skin infections thanks to its antimicrobial properties, although it may cause irritation in some cases.
The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds in garlic help protect cells from damage and brain inflammation, which may reduce the risk of brain diseases such as Alzheimer's and dementia.
1. **Treatment of stomach problems:** Garlic is considered an effective treatment for various stomach and intestinal problems in children, who usually tend to eat fast foods, which may lead to problems in the digestive system. Garlic helps eliminate worms in the stomach without affecting its normal functions.
2. **Treatment of cough and cold:** Most children suffer from cough and cold all year round, and raw garlic can help relieve some symptoms such as nasal congestion and runny nose.
3. **Treatment of eye infections:** Garlic contains vitamin C and selenium, which makes it useful in treating watery and swollen eyes, but it must be used with caution and taking some precautions.
4. **Treatment of ear infections:** Ear infections are considered one of the common health problems in children, and they can be treated effectively using a mixture of garlic oil and olive oil, as this mixture helps eliminate and prevent the bacteria causing the infection.
5. **Asthma treatment:** Asthma cases are increasing among children, and parents may hesitate to use medical medications for fear of becoming dependent on them. On the other hand, natural treatments are safe and effective, as they help treat the root of the problem. When used in the right way and quantity, garlic can help get rid of various types of infections, but it may cause some side effects.
Here is a collection of the many benefits of garlic for heart health:
1. **Prevents blood clots**
One of the benefits of garlic for the heart is reducing the risk of blood clots. Platelet buildup in the arteries can lead to blockages, hindering blood flow and increasing the risk of heart disease. Garlic extract, which contains diallyl disulfide, is thought to help prevent platelet aggregation in the coronary arteries. Some studies have shown that eating raw garlic may be more effective in preventing blood clots than eating it cooked.
2. **Reduces high blood pressure**
Research has shown that eating garlic can reduce systolic blood pressure by 7 to 9 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure by 4 to 6 mmHg in people with high blood pressure. High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart failure, as it causes the left ventricle to enlarge and increase the heart rate, hindering the heart's ability to pump blood adequately.
3. **Prevents cardiomyopathy due to diabetes**
A scientific study showed that garlic oil may help protect diabetics from cardiomyopathy, which is a chronic condition that leads to enlargement or hardening of the heart muscle. Although these results are promising, the study was conducted in mice, which requires more research in humans to confirm these benefits.
4. **Reduces the incidence of atherosclerosis**
As we age, arteries lose their ability to dilate, and garlic may help reduce these symptoms. Some studies suggest that taking a garlic powder supplement twice daily for two years may reduce the risk of atherosclerosis.
5. **Reduces cholesterol**
Garlic is effective in reducing blood cholesterol levels, which is an additional benefit for heart health. Cholesterol is a wax substanceThe body needs it to build healthy cells, but high levels can increase the risk of heart disease. A study of 23 volunteers with high cholesterol showed that garlic extract supplements lowered cholesterol levels and increased antioxidants in the blood, resulting in a significant reduction in blood pressure. The results also showed a decrease in the level of the oxidation product (MDA) in the blood samples, which indicates a reduction in oxidation reactions in the body.
1. **Bleeding:** Eating too much garlic may increase the risk of bleeding, as it reduces the formation of blood clots, which may cause serious complications.
2. **Stomach irritation:** Although garlic can be beneficial for the digestive system, excessive consumption of it may cause irritation of the stomach walls, in addition to indigestion and diarrhea.
3. **Low blood pressure:** While garlic helps adults regulate blood pressure, it may lead to a severe drop in blood pressure in children, which can be dangerous.
4. **Excessive external use and skin irritation:** Garlic oil works as an external antiseptic and treats minor wounds, but excessive use on the skin may cause irritation, burns, and blisters.
**The correct use of garlic in children**
Raw garlic can offer many health benefits if used correctly, but it is best to consult an alternative medicine specialist before starting to use it.
1. **Strengthen immunity**
Raw garlic contributes significantly to strengthening the immune system and fighting infections, thanks to it containing a high percentage of the compound allicin, which enhances the body’s ability to fight bacteria, according to some studies.
2. **Promoting heart health**
Eating raw garlic has many benefits for heart health, as some research has shown that it helps control high blood pressure and reduces harmful cholesterol levels in the body.
3. **Control blood sugar**
Raw garlic is especially important for patients with type 2 diabetes, as it contributes to lowering blood sugar levels during fasting and maintaining their overall balance.
4. **Support brain health**
Some animal studies have shown that eating large amounts of fresh garlic can enhance memory and brain health. However, more research is still needed to determine its effect on human brains.
5. **Anti-cancer**
Garlic contains antioxidant properties, which makes it useful in protecting cells from damage caused by free radicals, and thus helps in preventing some chronic diseases and multiple types of cancer.
6. **Improving digestive health**
The results of some studies indicate that eating raw garlic regularly enhances the health of beneficial bacteria in the intestines, which contributes to improving the digestive process and the health of the digestive system in general.
7. **Anti-inflammatory**
Eating raw garlic regularly helps reduce inflammation in the body, which reduces the chances of developing diseases, including arthritis, which is a chronic health problem.
4. **Detoxify the body**
The sulfur compounds found in garlic contribute to the elimination of heavy metal toxins from the body. They also support liver functions and help cleanse the body of toxins, which enhances overall health.
6. **Antimicrobial and antiviral effects**
Garlic has powerful antimicrobial and antiviral properties. Chewing raw garlic can help fight pathogens such as bacteria, viruses and fungi, reducing the risk of infection and promoting oral health.
Garlic contains allicin, which helps regulate blood pressure. Therefore, eating garlic is very beneficial for patients with high blood pressure, which contributes to reducing heart-related diseases.
Garlic has antimicrobial properties, which helps relieve symptoms of colds and coughs, which often occur during monsoon seasons or weather changes. In these cases, vitamin C and B6 present in garlic boost immunity, providing relief from cough and cold.
Acne appears as a result of the accumulation of bacteria in the pores of the skin. In this case, the antibacterial properties of garlic help prevent the appearance of acne, and if it occurs, garlic also contributes to accelerating the treatment process.
Despite the many health benefits of raw garlic, there are some groups that are advised to avoid eating garlic, according to Dr. Bahaa Naji, a clinical nutrition consultant. These categories include:
- Patients with esophageal reflux disease
- People who take fluid medications
- Irritable bowel syndrome patients
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women
- People with yeast infections
Eating raw garlic can lead to some health risks, such as immediate allergic reactions and interaction with some medications, including thinners. Therefore, it is best to consult a doctor before starting to take it, especially if you suffer from any health condition. It is also recommended not to eat raw garlic on an empty stomach in the morning. Rather, it is preferable to cut it into small pieces and add it to salad or any other food.
Among the possible harms of eating raw garlic:
- Inflammation and disorder in the stomach and digestive system, leading to bloating and accumulation of gas.
- Acidity and burning in the stomach, as eating garlic on an empty stomach may stimulate the reflux of stomach acids into the esophagus.
- Diarrhea.
- Allergies.
- Nausea and vomiting.
Are there health risks associated with eating garlic?
Consuming raw garlic may pose some health risks, including:
- The possibility of an allergic reaction occurring immediately after taking it.
- Interaction with some medications, such as fluid medications, so it is preferable to consult a specialist doctor before starting to take it.