Consuming one or two cloves of garlic daily can provide the human body with the necessary beneficial compounds, according to Dmitry Kulikov, head of the Department of Biotechnology and Technology of Bioorganic Synthesis Products at the ROSBIOTECH University. In an interview with RIA Novosti, he spoke about the consequences of garlic consumption for Russians.
Kulikov noted that garlic has a positive effect on the intestinal microbiota, helping to get rid of pathogenic microflora.
“Garlic is used as a medicine for flatulence, colitis and enterocolitis, constipation, and appendicitis. It is also an excellent dietary product, stimulating the formation and secretion of bile, improving the secretion of enzymes and gastric juice, reducing cholesterol and glucose levels in the blood, which is especially useful for diabetes and obesity,” he listed.
In addition, Kulikov emphasized the importance of garlic for strengthening the immune system. Due to the high content of polyphenols, quercetin and phytoncides, garlic promotes a speedy recovery from colds, runny noses, sore throats, acute respiratory viral infections and flu, and also helps remove phlegm.
The biotechnologist also noted the benefits of garlic for the cardiovascular system, improving the condition of blood vessels and giving them elasticity.
Garlic, despite its many beneficial properties, may be contraindicated for certain groups of people due to its potential side effects and interactions with drugs.
“People with gastritis or gastric and duodenal ulcers should avoid consuming garlic. The active components of garlic, such as allicin, can irritate the stomach lining, which worsens inflammation and ulcers. Eating garlic in its raw form, especially, can cause discomfort, pain and heartburn , which makes it unsuitable for people with sensitive stomachs or intestines,” saysgastroenterologist Alexandra Alisova specially for MedicForum.
People taking anticoagulants or blood thinners should also be careful with garlic. Garlic has natural anticoagulant properties, which can increase the effects of these medications and increase the risk of bleeding.
Therefore, before including garlic in your diet, you should consult with your doctor to avoid potential complications.
While moderate amounts of garlic may be safe, consuming too much may cause heartburn and digestive problems. Additionally, some children may be sensitive to garlic, and its smell and taste may pass into breast milk, which may irritate infants.
People with liver or kidney disease should also limit their garlic intake. While garlic may have liver-friendly properties, its active components may be too harsh for people with pre-existing liver problems.
“Thus, despite the beneficial properties of garlic, it may be contraindicated for certain groups of people due to possible side effects and interactions with medications.”
It is always important to consider the individual characteristics of the body and consult a doctor before making changes to the diet.
Previously, MedicForum wrote about the benefits of intermittent fasting.
Important! Information is provided for reference purposes. Ask a specialist about contraindications and side effects and do not self-medicate under any circumstances. At the first signs of illness, consult a doctor.