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Can You Eat Raw Garlic? Know About The Benefits

Garlic, with its distinct pungent aroma and flavour, has been prized for generations for its culinary and medicinal benefits. When ingested raw, this modest bulb, a near relative of onions and leeks, provides a plethora of health advantages.

Various research studies have also proved the effect of garlic consumption in preventing blood clotting, lowering blood pressure, and cholesterol levels, according to Dr Edwina Raj, Head of Services, Clinic Nutrition and Dietetics, Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru. She does, however, advocate safe garlic recommendations to avoid negative effects in the majority of people. 

Immune System Support

Raw garlic is renowned for its immune-boosting properties. It contains allicin, a compound that exhibits antimicrobial and antiviral properties, helping the body fend off infections. Consuming raw garlic regularly may reduce the severity and duration of colds and flu.

Heart Health

Garlic is associated with heart-healthy benefits. It can help lower blood pressure and reduce cholesterol levels, thus reducing the risk of heart disease. Allicin in raw garlic has vasodilatory effects, relaxing blood vessels and improving blood flow.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Inflammation is a common factor in various chronic diseases. Garlic's anti-inflammatory properties can help mitigate the risk of conditions like osteoarthritis and other inflammatory disorders.

Allicin, derived from freshly crushed garlic, was discovered to have antiviral capabilities and to be effective against a wide spectrum of bacteria, including multidrug-resistant strains of E. Coli, according to a study published in the journal Frontiers in Microbiology.

Also read: 7 Tips To Get Rid Of Garlic And Onion Breath

Antioxidant Protection

Garlic is rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress in the body. These antioxidants help protect cells from damage, potentially reducing the risk of certain cancers and slowing down the aging process.

May Prevent Cancer 

Several studies suggest that raw garlic may have cancer-fighting properties. Its bioactive compounds may inhibit the growth of cancer cells and reduce the risk of various cancer types, including stomach and colorectal cancers.

Digestive Health

Garlic can promote healthy digestion by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes. It may also help alleviate gastrointestinal issues such as bloating and gas.

Detoxification

Raw garlic supports the body's natural detoxification processes, helping to eliminate harmful toxins and heavy metals from the system.

Antifungal and Antibacterial Properties

Garlic is a natural antimicrobial agent. It can help combat fungal and bacterial infections, making it a valuable addition to your diet when dealing with minor health issues.

Also read: Try This Garlic Oil To Increase Hair Growth

Skin Benefits

Garlic's antioxidant and antimicrobial properties can benefit the skin. Applying crushed garlic topically may help with skin conditions like acne, fungal infections, and warts.

Weight Management

Some studies suggest that garlic may aid in weight management by promoting satiety and boosting metabolism. While not a magic weight loss remedy, it can be a helpful addition to a balanced diet.

Incorporating Raw Garlic into Your Diet

Raw garlic can be a powerful addition to your diet, but its pungent taste and smell can be off-putting to some. Here are some tips for incorporating it more easily:

Crush or mince it: Crushing or mincing garlic releases more of its beneficial compounds. You can add it to sauces, salad dressings, or even a glass of water..

Use it in cooking: Add raw garlic to soups, stir-fries, or sautéed vegetables for an extra health boost.

Create garlic-infused oils or vinegars: Infusing oils or vinegars with garlic can add flavor and nutrition to your dishes.

Raw garlic, with its number of health benefits, is a remarkable addition to a balanced diet. Whether you're aiming to support your immune system, protect your heart, or reduce the risk of chronic diseases, this pungent powerhouse can be a valuable ally on your journey to better health. So, don't be afraid to embrace the natural wonders of raw garlic and savour its many advantages.

Garlic, The Immune System Booster

Garlic has a long history of use as an immune system booster because of its antiseptic, anti-fungal and nutritive properties. It is a natural detoxicant protecting against bacterial and viral infections without any of the side-effects associated with antibiotics.

Eaten raw or in a capsule, research shows it is a good preventative medicine against coughs, colds and chest infections during the winter or as a natural fast-acting antibiotic if infection is present. During the First World War raw garlic juice was used as an antiseptic for bathing wounds and helped save saved thousands of lives.

Garlic is packed with nutrients, particularly vitamins B1, B6 and C, iron and phosphorus and alliin which converts to allicin, which is thought to be the major antibacterial constituent of garlic.

There isn't a recommended daily allowance for garlic, but German researchers recommend a dose of 1-4 cloves a day which provides around 4,000mcg of alliin.

To cure a chesty cough crush three cloves of raw garlic, sprinkle one tablespoon of brown sugar and leave in a covered saucer for six hours. Sip the liquid throughout the day until the cough has gone.

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Struggling With Belly Fat? These 5 Raw Garlic Hacks Could Be Your Game-Changer

Garlic contains fat-burning properties.

Are you looking for a natural and easy way to shed some unwanted belly fat? Look no further than your kitchen! Raw garlic, that humble yet potent ingredient, can be your best friend on this journey. This pungent bulb is loaded with health benefits, including the potential to help you lose belly fat. Here are five simple and effective ways to incorporate raw garlic into your morning routine for a slimmer waistline. These morning habits are simple ways to incorporate raw garlic into your routine, but remember that consistency is key. 

Also read: Struggling With Belly Fat? Try These 5 Green Juices To Lose Weight

Can raw garlic burn belly fat? 

Nutritionist and weight loss consultant Simran Saini explains, "Garlic boasts of high sulphur content which eliminates toxins and helps with digestion, aiding weight loss. In fact, it is best to consume garlic in its raw form." 

Raw garlic is known for its metabolism-boosting properties, which can help your body burn fat more efficiently. A study published in the Journal of Nutrition revealed how garlic can help with weight loss. Garlic contains some compounds that promote the fat-burning process in the body. Hence, garlic for belly fat is something you all should consider.

Also Read: Does Drinking Green Tea Help You Get a Flat Tummy? 

Belly fat can be reduced with a good diet.

1. Raw Garlic and Warm Water 

This is perhaps the easiest way to kickstart your day with raw garlic. Peel and crush a clove of garlic, and then let it sit for a few minutes to activate its beneficial compounds. Once it's ready, mix it with a glass of warm water and gulp it down on an empty stomach. The warm water will help soothe your stomach, while the garlic works its magic. 

2. Garlic and Lemon Juice 

For those who just can't stand the smell and taste of raw garlic, a garlic and lemon combo works. Squeeze the juice from half a lemon and mix it with your crushed garlic clove. Add a glass of warm water to the mix and give it a good stir. This combination provides a double dose of fat-fighting power. In addition, lemon is rich in vitamin C, which can help break down belly fat.  

3. Garlic and Honey  

If the thought of raw garlic makes your taste buds cringe, you can make it more palatable by adding honey to the mix. Mix a crushed garlic clove with a teaspoon of honey and a glass of warm water. The honey not only masks the pungent flavour of the garlic but also adds its own set of health benefits. Honey, in moderation, can also contribute to this effort and prevent the accumulation of belly fat. 

4. Garlic and Green Tea 

Green tea is celebrated for its weight loss benefits, and when combined with raw garlic, it becomes a powerful belly fat-fighting drink. Prepare a cup of green tea and let it cool slightly. Crush a garlic clove and mix it into your warm green tea. Green tea contains antioxidants and compounds that boost metabolism and help your body burn fat more effectively. When you add garlic to the mix, it enhances the thermogenic effect, making it an even more potent belly fat-burning elixir.  

5. Garlic And Salt 

"The Complete Book of Ayurvedic Home Remedies", by Dr. Vasant Lad suggests chewing raw garlic, and since the pungent taste makes it difficult, you can flavour it.  "Peel and chop fresh garlic clove, add a dash of baking soda and salt, and then consume it." Raw garlic is known for its metabolism-boosting properties, which can help your body burn fat more efficiently. 

A Few Words of Caution  While raw garlic can be a valuable addition to your morning routine for belly fat loss, it's essential to exercise caution. Garlic can be potent and may not suit everyone. If you're new to consuming raw garlic, start with a small amount and monitor how your body reacts. It's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet. 

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