Garlic is used both for herbal medicine and for flavoring food. If you use garlic for medicinal purposes you can either consume fresh raw garlic or take garlic supplements. One potential reason for some of the benefits of consuming garlic is its high antioxidant content. Although some people may take garlic in an attempt to lower their blood sugar levels, evidence does not support this use, according to the Center for Science in the Public Interest.
Animal Studies
The idea that garlic may be effective for controlling blood sugar levels may have come from animal studies. A study published in March 2006 in the "Journal of Nutrition" found that raw garlic consumption lowered blood sugar in rats, as well as lowering triglycerides and cholesterol. However, boiled garlic did not produce these effects.
Human Studies
In October 2000, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality published a report on the effectiveness of garlic. After reviewing the 12 small studies on the effect of garlic on blood sugar available at that time, the authors concluded that garlic didn't have a significant effect on the blood glucose levels of adults with or without diabetes.
Side Effects and Safety
Garlic can have a number of side effects, including smelly breath, body odor, diarrhea, bloating, upset stomach, nausea, vomiting and gas. More rarely, garlic can cause headache, loss of appetite, dizziness, fatigue, sore muscles and allergies. Garlic may also increase your risk for bleeding and interact with medications including blood thinners, HIV medications, birth control medications, isoniazid, cyclosporine and saquinavir.
Considerations
Although the amount of garlic used in foods is generally safe, speak with your doctor before taking garlic in medicinal amounts to make sure it would be safe for you. Do not self-treat any condition with garlic, or use it in place of the treatment prescribed by your doctor. Garlic is not considered an effective way to control your blood sugar, and should not be used for this purpose.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Garlic
- MedlinePlus: Garlic
- Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality; Garlic Effects on Cardiovascular Risks and Disease, Protective Effects Against Cancer, and Clinical Adverse Effects Summary; October 2000
- "The Journal of Nutrition"; Including Garlic in the Diet May Help Lower Blood Glucose, Cholesterol, and Triglycerides; Martha Thomson et al; March 2006
- "Nutrition Action Health Letter"; Keeping a Lid on Blood Sugar; David Schardt; May 2001
