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
- Is it Safe to Eat Garlic During Pregnancy?
- How Much Garlic Can You Eat During Pregnancy?
- 8 Amazing Benefits of Eating Garlic During Pregnancy
- Side Effects of Garlic During Pregnancy
- FAQ’s
Is it Safe to Eat Garlic During Pregnancy?
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.
How Much Garlic Can You Eat During Pregnancy?
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.
8 Amazing Benefits of Eating Garlic During Pregnancy
There are various benefits of having garlic during pregnancy, such as:
1. Beneficial for Heart-Related Problems
The allicin compound present in garlic helps to control cholesterol levels and thus reduces the risk of heart-related problems.
2. Lowers the Risk of Colorectal Cancer
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.
3. Reduces the Risk of Preeclampsia
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.
4. Reduces the Risk of Preterm Delivery
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.
5. The Natural Antidote of Cold, Flu, and Infections
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.
6. Fights Against Skin Problems
Garlic has antimicrobial properties which are very effective in keeping your skin healthy. Optimum consumption of garlic keeps skin diseases away.
7. Reduces Hair Loss
The organic sulfur-based compounds and high amount of allicin of garlic prevent hair loss and promote hair growth.
8. Gives Relief From Fatigue and Dizziness
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.
Side Effects of Garlic During Pregnancy
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:
- There are components in garlic that make the blood thin naturally. This may cause excessive bleeding and during surgery, this could be a major issue.
- While garlic helps to reduce high blood pressure, excessive consumption or eating without the proper guidance of your doctor may cause a drop in your blood pressure and this is dangerous while you are carrying a baby inside you.
- Excessive garlic in your menu may cause an upset stomach and in turn, adversely affect your digestive system.
- Excessive garlic in your menu may cause heartburn.
- Some people may also have an allergic reaction when consumed in raw or even in cooked form.
- The notable problem caused by the over-eating of garlic is the bad breath and body odor.
- Garlic and its supplement reacts with anti-clotting medications which in turn do not allow the blood to coagulate.
- Consumption of garlic stimulates the release of insulin, and the blood sugar level may drop.
FAQ’s
1. Does Garlic Affect Early Pregnancy?
Though it is safe to have garlic in your first trimesters, excessive consumption is not good for the mother and the fetus.
2. Does Garlic Make You Sick During Pregnancy?
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.
3. What Do Ginger and Garlic do to a Pregnant Woman?
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.
