Throughout history, people have valued garlic for its potency and versatility in food and medicine. In modern holistic medicine, practitioners widely regard garlic as a preventative method and treatment technique for several common illnesses. According to the American Heart Association, there is no clear evidence to suggest that any specific preparation of garlic is more beneficial than any other. Although roasted garlic may offer greater health benefits than raw garlic, no studies have demonstrated this theory. Consult your health care provider before taking garlic supplements or making any dramatic changes in your diet.
Cholesterol Support
High cholesterol is a major risk factor for several serious forms of heart disease. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, garlic consumption decreases levels of both total and LDL, or "bad," cholesterol. Additionally, the UMMC suggests that garlic may help to increase HDL, or "good," cholesterol levels, thereby further reducing a person's cardiovascular risk. Because it is a powerful antioxidant, garlic may further help to prevent heart disease by blocking oxidation--damage from reactive oxygen molecules known as free radicals--of LDL cholesterol.
General Cardiovascular Health
As part of a healthy diet, roasted garlic may promote overall cardiovascular health. The UMMC links garlic consumption to modest decreases in systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Garlic also inhibits the aggregation, or clumping, of blood cells, possibly reducing the risk of blood clots, heart attack and stroke. The UMMC also reports that garlic can decrease levels of homocysteine and C-reactive protein, two markers for cardiovascular disease. However, the National Institutes of Health notes that there is no clear evidence that garlic can prevent heart attack, stroke or sudden death.
Cancer Prevention
Roasted garlic may help to prevent several common and deadly forms of cancer. According to the UMMC, people who eat raw or cooked garlic on a regular basis have lower rates of colorectal and stomach cancers. Roasted garlic may also defend against throat, breast and prostate cancers. Although the UMMC regards these findings as "promising," the organization notes that garlic's cancer-preventing compounds have not been conclusively identified. It is unclear if roasted garlic offers greater benefits than raw garlic.
Immune Support
Roasted garlic contains allicin, a natural sulfur compound known for its antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties. The National Institutes of Health suggests that garlic may help to defend against fungal infections such as ringworm and yeast. Additionally, the NIH notes garlic's potential as a treatment for the common cold and other upper-respiratory ailments. Although the NIH acknowledges garlic's potential as a treatment for other infectious diseases, including HIV and meningitis, the organization states that there is insufficient evidence to support these uses.
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