Garlic Basics
Garlic and onions have been a part of cooking since ancient times.
Garlic is a vegetable in theAlliumfamily of bulb-shaped plants.
It grows in several sizes and colors and can be planted alongside other vegetables as a natural pesticide.
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Garlic contains high levels ofsulfur,flavonoids, and selenium.
And, when it is crushed, chopped, or bruised, garlic produces the compound allicin.
Allicin can have an effect on cells called signaling cells, which control cell growth.
Multiple studies have been done on garlic and its role in cancer prevention.
Substances in garlic may play a role in improving the process of cancer cell growth, including repairing DNA.
Most of the research is animal or laboratory research, although there are also human studies.
While the research doesn’t quite have clear answers, it is showing some promising results.
Gastric cancer is very common worldwide, being the leading cancer diagnosis in some countries.
You may use fresh, uncooked garlic.
Other forms of garlic include garlic essential oil, garlic powder, and garlic extract.
How Much Garlic Should You Eat?
Health authorities have issued no dietary guidelines or recommendations for how much garlic to eat daily.
In general, one clove is considered a serving.
It may take only a small amount of garlic consumption to provide its cancer-reducing effects.
Preparing and Purchasing Garlic
Preparing fresh garlic is ideal.
Better options can include lightly sauteing, steaming, or baking.
What If You Don’t Like Garlic?
Some people simply don’t like garlic, but there are options that provide similar benefits.
It’s important to note that these studies looked at antioxidant supplements, not dietary sources.
Supplements may contain very high levels of the compounds, significantly more than would naturally be eaten.
It is always important to discuss any supplements you’re taking with your cancer care team.
Summary
Garlic contains compounds that can benefit your health, including possibly reducing the risk of cancer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Garlic has many health benefits.
Certain compounds in garlic may help reduce the risk of cancer.
Garlic powder might contain the same beneficial compounds as raw garlic, but likely to a lesser extent.
Eating garlic as close to its raw state as possible may give the best health benefits.
You shouldn’t eat too much garlic or take garlic supplements if you are on blood-thinning medications.
The combination could increase your risk of bleeding.
The exact amount of garlic needed is not known.
However, it is suggested that one to two raw cloves of garlic daily can provide health benefits.
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