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If you’re looking to shed a few pounds, you might be wondering if garlic can help. Here’s what the research says about garlic and weight loss.
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Table of Contents
Introduction
If you’re looking for a magic bullet to help with weight loss, you might be wondering if garlic can help. Unfortunately, there’s no easy answer. While some research shows that garlic may have some benefits when it comes to weight loss, other studies have found no effects.
So what’s the verdict? Does garlic help with weight loss or not? Let’s take a closer look at the research to find out.
What is garlic?
Garlic is a species in the onion genus, Allium. Its close relatives include the onion, shallot, leek, chive, and Chinese onion. With a history of human use of over 7,000 years, garlic is native to central Asia and has long been a staple in the Mediterranean region for both culinary and medicinal uses. It was known to Ancient Egyptians, and has been used throughout the ages for both its culinary and therapeutic properties.
The benefits of garlic for weight loss
When it comes to weight loss, there are many different strategies that people use in order to try and achieve their goals. Some people focus on diet, others on exercise, and still others on a combination of both. And then there are those who turn to natural supplements like garlic in order to give them a boost.
So, is garlic good for weight loss? The answer may surprise you. While garlic certainly has many benefits, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that it can help you lose weight. In fact, most of the claims about garlic and weight loss are based on anecdotal evidence or traditional beliefs rather than hard science.
That being said, garlic is a healthy food that can be part of a weight-loss friendly diet. It is low in calories and has been shown to have numerous health benefits, including the ability to lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels. Additionally, garlic can help to boost your immune system and fight off infections. So while it may not help you lose weight directly, it can certainly aid in your overall health and well-being.
How to use garlic for weight loss
Including garlic in your diet is an excellent way to boost your weight loss efforts. This pungent bulb is packed with nutrients that have powerful effects on the body.
Here are some ways in which you can use garlic for weight loss:
– Add garlic to your stir-fries and sautés.
– Include garlic in soups and stews.
– Roast garlic and spread it on toast.
– Make a garlic dip or dressing by mashing roasted garlic and mixing it with olive oil, lemon juice, and other herbs and spices.
– Add raw garlic to salads.
The side effects of garlic
Garlic is a food that has been used for centuries in many cultures for its various health benefits. It is rich in antioxidants and has been shown to boost the immune system, lower blood pressure, and improve cholesterol levels. However, garlic also has a few potential side effects that should be considered before adding it to your diet.
Gastrointestinal issues: Garlic can cause heartburn, gas, and nausea in some people. If you experience any of these symptoms after eating garlic, it’s best to avoid it or limit your intake.
Allergic reactions: A small minority of people are allergic to garlic. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, lips, or tongue. If you experience any of these symptoms after eating garlic, seek medical help immediately.
Blood thinning: Garlic can thin the blood and should be used with caution by people who are taking blood-thinning medication or who have a bleeding disorder. If you are scheduled for surgery, you should stop taking garlic at least two weeks before the procedure.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a weight loss boost, garlic may not be your best bet. While there are some health benefits associated with garlic, there’s no evidence to suggest that it can help you lose weight. If you enjoy the taste of garlic, there’s no harm in including it in your diet. But don’t expect it to help you shed pounds.