In India, eating garlic on an empty stomach is considered a part of ancient wisdom, something our grandmothers asked us to do and also something their grandmothers did. It is a practice that’s probably rooted in traditional medicine, and is believed to amplify the therapeutic properties of garlic. While a study says garlic is good for us anyway eating it raw may amplify its benefits.
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Garlic has a strong flavour and eating it raw the first thing in the morning is not easy. If you consider it medicinal though, this might be easier to do. You can either eat a raw garlic clove with water or crush the garlic and add it to your morning smoothie or juice. Another way to eat it is by mixing minced garlic with honey or olive oil to make it taste milder.
It’s best to check with a doctor how much garlic you can eat but usually not more than three pods should be eaten at a time when eaten raw.
Why an empty stomach?
The compounds in garlic can enhance the absorption of essential nutrients from food. This is particularly beneficial when garlic is consumed on an empty stomach, as it can prepare the digestive system to absorb vitamins and minerals more efficiently. This can lead to improved overall nutrition and better health outcomes.
Helps Cure Cold And Flu
Garlic has potent antibacterial and antiviral properties. The credit for this goes to allicin, a bio active compound present in garlic, which gets released when garlic is crushed or chopped. Eating garlic on an empty stomach increases its effectiveness as the allicin is more easily absorbed by the body. This helps it defend itself against bacterial and viral infections. If you eat it regularly it can also help you combat common illnesses such as colds, cough and flu. However a study says that more research is required to prove this.
Boosts Immune Function
Research says that garlic is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamins B6 and C, manganese, selenium, and fibre. These nutrients play an important role in supporting the immune system. Eating garlic on an empty stomach helps the body absorb these nutrients easily and this helps strengthen the immune response, making the body more resilient against infections and diseases.
Has Anti-inflammatory Effects
Chronic inflammation can lead to numerous health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. Garlic possesses significant anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation throughout the body. Consuming garlic on an empty stomach may enhance these effects, potentially reducing the risk of inflammatory diseases and improving overall health.
Helps Keep The Heart Healthy
One of the most well-researched and proven benefits of garlic is its positive impact on cardiovascular health. Garlic has been shown to lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, and improve blood circulation. These effects are particularly beneficial when garlic is consumed on an empty stomach, as the body can absorb its active compounds more efficiently. However you need to eat garlic regularly and in the right quantity to help it fight heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions.
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Helps In Detoxification
Garlic is a natural detoxifier. It can help to cleanse the liver and remove toxins from the body. This detoxifying effect is amplified when garlic is consumed on an empty stomach. The Sulfur compounds in garlic help in liver function and also to remove harmful substances. This will help digestion and also improve energy levels.
Has Antioxidant Properties
Garlic is rich in antioxidants such as allicin and selenium, which can neutralise free radicals, this reduces the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer's. Eating garlic on an empty stomach ensures that these antioxidants are effectively utilised by the body.
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Improves Digestive Health
Garlic stimulates the production of gastric juices, which aid in digestion. Additionally, garlic has prebiotic properties that support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. This improves digestion, and prevents digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and constipation.
Helps Weight loss
Garlic has been proven to boost metabolism and help burn calories more efficiently. Allicin, the active compound in garlic, can suppress appetite and reduce the formation of fat cells.
Potential Anticancer Properties
Some research suggests that garlic may have anticancer properties. Studies have shown that the sulfur compounds in garlic can inhibit the growth of cancer cells and reduce the risk of certain cancers, including stomach, colon, and breast cancer.