ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF EATING GARLIC

Garlic is used in cuisine from all around the world not only because it can add a pleasant flavor to any dish, but also because many cultures have learned to take advantage of the beneficial properties of garlic. In addition to packing a lot of intense flavor, garlic is low in calories but rich in antioxidants. Although more studies are needed to confirm the health benefits  of garlic, the advantages of garlic outweigh its potential disadvantages, unless you take some medications, have a sensitive stomach or suffer from irritable bowel syndrome. However, you should consult your doctor before taking garlic supplements.Heart HealthSponsored LinksCancer TreatmentSweden Ghana Medical Centre has full range of cancer specialties!www.sgmcltd.comCancerInteractions
Gastrointestinal Problems

Some studies indicate that garlic could benefit your heart health, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. If your blood cholesterol levels are not within target, eating garlic could help you improve them, which can lower your risk of suffering from cardiovascular problems. Garlic can help lower your LDL cholesterol and increase your HDL cholesterol. A regular dose of garlic could also reduce your blood pressure and prevent blood clots, which could cause a stroke or heart attack.

Another advantage of garlic is its anti-cancer properties, whether you eat it raw or cooked. A study compiling the data from studies looking at the link between diet and cancer found that people eating garlic on a regular basis had a 30 percent lower risk of suffering from colorectal cancer, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Garlic could also have protective benefits against breast, prostate, throat and stomach cancers. Garlic also has the benefits of stimulating your immune system if you eat it regularly, which can help you fight not only cancer, but also infections, colds and flus.

Adding garlic to your food is not likely to interact with your medications, but check with your doctor to be sure, especially if you consume significant amounts of garlic. Avoid taking garlic supplements without first consulting your doctor, especially if taking medications. For example, large amounts of garlic can interfere with the function of blood thinners, anti-platelet medications such as aspirin, as well as some medications prescribed for human immunodeficiency virus.

In sensitive people, garlic can trigger irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, symptoms or other common gastrointestinal problems, including bloating, diarrhea, constipation or an upset stomach. If it is your case, beware of garlic, raw or cooked, as well as garlic powder. Eliminate garlic to see if your IBS or gastrointestinal symptoms improve without garlic. If garlic appears to be contributing to your symptoms, avoid it. Replace garlic with plenty of other nonstarchy vegetables and fruits that you tolerate to benefit from their health-protective properties.