Eating raw garlic before bed: The secret key to longevity?
A single clove of raw garlic (0.1 ounces) can provide 2% of the daily requirements for manganese and vitamin B6, 1% for vitamin C and selenium, as well as trace amounts of calcium, copper, potassium, phosphorus, iron, and vitamin B1.
7:07 AM EST, January 15, 2024
Thanks to its powerful antibacterial and antiviral properties, garlic helps combat infections and boosts the immune system.
The compound alliin in garlic, which transforms into allicin (a sulfur compound) upon chewing or crushing, exhibits robust antioxidant and anti-cancer properties. It can help regulate cholesterol levels and blood pressure, which may prevent heart diseases.
Garlic's role in reducing cholesterol levels and blood pressure and its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits may help mitigate the risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases.
Research also indicates that garlic stimulates the digestive system and balances glucose levels overnight, which is particularly helpful for individuals managing diabetes.
Eating garlic before bed
The recommended method to consume garlic is by ingesting a teaspoon of garlic paste about an hour before bed. You can crush or chop raw garlic cloves and consume the resultant paste straight from the spoon.
However, remember that garlic can potentially irritate the stomach, so starting with smaller doses is prudent — a third of a teaspoon might be sufficient initially.
Limitations and risks of consuming garlic
However, the consumption of raw garlic isn't advised for everyone. Individuals with stomach conditions such as stomach ulcers, gastritis, gastroesophageal reflux, or liver diseases should avoid it.
People not dealing with chronic diseases can typically enjoy many health benefits from consuming garlic.