Written by Editorial Team
One of the most precious moments in a woman’s life is the pregnancy period. And this time you need to be more conscious about your health and wellness and keep a close eye on your food habits. Garlic is one of the most discussed herbs to be consumed during pregnancy. This is widely used in many Indian recipes as well as worldwide. But is it good to eat garlic during pregnancy?
Garlic is a tastemaker and has numerous health benefits, but it also has side effects. If garlic is harmless, then how much is safe? What are the pros and cons of eating garlic during your childbearing period?. Therefore, it is always recommended to consult your doctor who knows your medical history before you make your decision. Let’s discuss all these points in detail.
In This Article
Garlic is rich in nutrients, minerals, and vitamins which are essential for your body. It has some antibacterial properties too. Based on Human Intervention Studies, it has been found that the secondary metabolites present in garlic have excellent properties to prevent common diseases like cancer, cardiovascular and metabolic disorder, diabetes, and blood pressure. Many studies suggested that it is safe to eat garlic during pregnancy, but you must consider it in optimum quantity only.
During the first trimesters, it is considered quite safer, but in the second and third trimesters, the side effects like lowering the blood pressure and thinning the blood may create complications.
What should be the exact amount of garlic during pregnancy is not yet clearly determined. But as per a study, two to three cloves of garlic can be taken and are considered safe. But the same research shows that before surgery, it is advised to stop taking high quantities of garlic as it can increase bleeding time.
There are various benefits of having garlic during pregnancy, such as:
The allicin compound present in garlic helps to control cholesterol levels and thus reduces the risk of heart-related problems.
A research report by American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) says that the compounds available in garlic repair the DNA, decrease inflammation, and chip in the growth of cancer cells.
Preeclampsia is a high blood pressure condition that is harmful to pregnant women. Garlic is helpful to reduce the risk of high blood pressure and urinary protein levels.
According to the study of NCIB, the antimicrobial components of garlic attack the microbes associated with preterm delivery and reduce the risk associated with it. In turn, it helps to improve the weight of your baby.
For years, garlic has been used as a natural remedy for viral infections, flu, cough, and cold. The organosulphur compound available in garlic attacks harmful bacteria and improves your immune system.
Garlic has antimicrobial properties which are very effective in keeping your skin healthy. Optimum consumption of garlic keeps skin diseases away.
The organic sulfur-based compounds and high amount of allicin of garlic prevent hair loss and promote hair growth.
Instances of fatigue are common in pregnant women. Garlic-based recipes help to lower the tiredness and fatigue during this period. Also during vomiting, garlic is a good remedy.
In spite of having many health benefits, this is not suitable for many women due to its side effects. It is always recommended to consult your doctor before adding garlic to your food menu. Below are the reasons:
Though it is safe to have garlic in your first trimesters, excessive consumption is not good for the mother and the fetus.
Eating a moderate quantity of garlic is beneficial for your health. But too much quantity can hamper your digestive system. Also, there can be a change of blood pressure drop and thinning of your blood. Please visit your doctor if you find any complications like these.
Ginger is good for your digestive system. Even if you have a vomiting tendency, ginger can give you relief. But when consumed in high quantities, this can be detrimental to you and your baby. Whereas garlic has natural nutrients, minerals, vitamins, and anti-bacterial properties which helps to prevent viral attacks, common cough, and cold.
With a rich experience in pregnancy and parenting, our team of experts create insightful, well-curated, and easy-to-read content for our to-be-parents and parents at all stages of parenting.Read more.
Physiotherapy During Pregnancy
Top Best Pregnancy Quotes And Sayings That Will Delight You
Cleaning During Pregnancy – Do’s And Don’ts
Massage Chairs During Pregnancy – Is It Safe?
Eel During Pregnancy – Is it Safe, Benefits and Side Effects
Hiking During Pregnancy – is it Safe, Benefits, and Precautions
Get regular updates, great recommendations and other right stuff at the right time.