Garlic has been used for centuries to treat high blood pressure and heart ailments. Its antioxidant properties are due to a compound it contains called allicin. Research indicates that garlic consumption might reduce the risk for colon or colorectal cancer. Consult with your health care provider before consuming any herbs for medical ailments.
Garlic Consumption
In research reported in the November 2006 issue of the journal "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition," scientists from Istituto di Richerche Farmacologiche in Italy investigated the relationship between garlic and onion consumption and human cancer. They concluded that participants with the highest intake of garlic lowered their risk of developing colorectal cancer compared to those with the lowest garlic intake.
Meta-Analysis
Scientists from the University of North Carolina performed a meta-analysis, or review, of the scientific studies regarding garlic consumption and colorectal and stomach cancers in both women and men. They reported in the October 2000 issue of the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition," that subjects consuming a high intake of raw and cooked garlic reduced their risk of developing colorectal cancer compared to those with a low intake of garlic consumption.
Review the Literature
Researchers from the University of South Australia and Charles Darwin University reviewed the literature regarding garlic consumption and risk of colorectal cancer. Patients with colon cancer taking aged garlic extract experienced significant decreases in the size and number of colon cancer cells. Researchers concluded that garlic consumption reduced the risk of colon cancer by up to 30 percent, according to research reported in the October 2007 issue of the "Journal of Nutrition."
Side Effects and Interactions
Garlic consumption may produce a few side effects, including stomach upset, bloating and gas. In addition, garlic may interact with certain medications such as blood-thinning medications and protease inhibitors, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Therefore, consult your health care provider before consuming garlic.
References
- "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition"; Onion and Garlic Use and Human Cancer; C. Galeone et al.; November 2006
- "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition"; Garlic Consumption and Cancer Prevention Meta-Analyses of Colorectal and Stomach Cancers; A.T. Fleischauer et al.; October 2000
- "Journal of Nutrition"; Does Garlic Reduce Risk of Colorectal Cancer? A Systematic Review; S. Ngo et al.; October 2007
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Garlic
