Diabetes Survival Guide: What You Need to Know About Garlic
Diabetes is when the body can’t make enough or doesn’t work well with insulin, which helps keep your blood sugar level from getting too high or too low. If you don’t take care of it, diabetes can lead to complications like heart and kidney problems.
Garlic has long been used as a remedy for many ailments. But what about diabetes? Diabetes is an increasingly prevalent disease that affects over 300 million people worldwide. Symptoms include excessive thirst and hunger and frequent urination. Garlic can be used to help manage these symptoms by lowering blood sugar levels, increasing insulin production in the pancreas, improving circulation of blood, and reducing inflammation.
Garlic is a delicious herb that can be used to treat diabetes. Garlic has benefits for diabetics because it reduces blood glucose levels, and also improves lipid profile, insulin sensitivity, and lipoprotein metabolism.
These benefits make garlic a natural alternative to common diabetes treatments such as metformin or other medications. For these reasons, garlic should be considered by all diabetics as an option in their treatment plan.
This article will go into detail about how garlic benefits diabetics on multiple levels.
The chemical properties of garlic
Garlic contains a variety of chemical compounds, vitamins, and minerals. Garlic has more than 400 chemicals. Many of them help with health problems. They can prevent and treat a lot of problems.
The health benefits from garlic are due to its unique mix of chemicals such as sulfuric acid, allicin, dithiopropine-sulfenic acid, methylcysteine sulfoxide, and two types of flavonoids called anthocyanidins (purple pigments) and quercetin (antioxidants).
Garlic is also rich in Vitamin C which strengthens the immune system by stimulating white blood cells that fight infection. One clove provides about one-third of an adult’s daily requirements for vitamin C.
Other vitamins in garlic are B-complex vitamins like riboflavin (B-12), folate, and niacin. The minerals found in garlic are potassium, selenium, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus.
Vitamin C strengthens white blood cells to fight infection while other B-vitamins provide energy from carbohydrates. Potassium helps cell communication; selenium reduces oxidative stress by blocking free radicals; calcium maintains bone health while providing structural support for muscle contraction or nerve transmission; magnesium aids many metabolic processes including protein synthesis and stabilization of blood sugar.
Phosphorus aids in the production of ATP, which is a form of energy for all living cells and helps to provide structural support for bones and teeth.
Selenium blocks free radicals while providing protection against cardiovascular disorders (CVD) as well as cancers including prostate cancer. Potassium helps maintain healthy skin because it regulates the water and electrolyte balance in the body.
The sulfuric acid in garlic can kill many types of bacteria including E Coli, H. Pylori (causes gastritis) Staph Bacteria, etc.
Allicin is the compound that provides protection against stomach ulcers as well as boosting cardiovascular health.
Garlic provides a variety of nutrients that are necessary for the body to maintain its various systems and functions.
Quercetin is an antioxidant that also helps keep free radicals in check, protecting DNA from damage among other benefits such as boosting cardiovascular health or preventing cancers like prostate cancer. Garlic has many minerals including potassium, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus that help maintain a healthy body.
Garlic also contains vitamin C which strengthens the immune system by increasing white blood cells thus reducing your chance of getting sick.
Allicin and dithiopropine-sulfenic acid are chemicals in garlic that provide protection against bacteria like E Coli and H Pylori (which causes gastritis) as well as cardiovascular health.
Garlic regulates blood sugar levels
Garlic contains a compound called allicin which has been found to help regulate blood sugar levels. Allicin has been found to be an effective and complementary therapy for glucose control in type II diabetes.
Allicin can increase the activity of insulin, which is a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels, as well as decreases blood triglycerides (a lipid). Allicin works like alpha-lipoic acid by converting unused carbohydrates into energy. Allicin also helps to lower levels of blood sugar.
Allicin can be found in raw garlic, and it is much more potent when the garlic has been cooked or crushed (rather than eaten whole). Allicin’s main mechanism for glucose control appears to be its ability to increase insulin activity while lowering triglyceride levels.
A more recent study has shown that allicin can block the enzyme that breaks down insulin and glucose, which in turn could help to reduce cardiovascular disease.
In the 1990s, a study found that garlic was able to lower blood sugar levels in rats, but this effect has not been demonstrated in human subjects. Clinical trials are ongoing to determine more of the effects of garlic on cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
In one study, raw garlic was found to reduce fasting blood glucose levels by 20% in patients with Type II Diabetes.
Garlic is rich in antioxidants
Garlic is rich in antioxidants which help to lower blood sugar levels. The antioxidants are known as Allicin and Cysteine, these substances in garlic have the ability to block enzymes related to diabetes. Allicin is also a blood thinner so it works by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol level.
Garlic’s blood-thinning properties are particularly helpful for people with diabetes who have a higher risk of blood clotting. The antioxidants in garlic, Allicin, and Cysteine, block the enzymes related to blood sugar problems like Diabetes Mellitus type-II.
Cysteine is one of the most important substances in garlic because it can help people with diabetes by blocking blood sugar production.
Antioxidants can protect the body from free radicals that lead to diabetes-related complications. It is important to find and use antioxidants like Allicin, Cysteine, and Selenium from natural sources such as garlic.
Eating garlic daily lowers cholesterol
Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in the blood that can build up and block arteries, which increases cardiovascular disease risk. High cholesterol is also linked to heart attacks, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems.
One study showed garlic supplements lowered total cholesterol by about 20% over an average of nine years. Garlic also lowered LDL cholesterol, which is the bad kind that causes cardiovascular disease.
Another study found garlic can increase HDL (good) cholesterol levels by up to 15%. Research has shown taking a daily dose of aged garlic extract over 12 weeks led to an 18% reduction in total cholesterol and a 28% drop in LDL cholesterol.
Take note that garlic will not work alone to lower your cholesterol levels, but it can be used as an effective supplement in conjunction with other cardiovascular disease prevention strategies like a healthy diet and exercise.
If you don’t like the taste of garlic, try taking a daily supplement or adding it to other foods by using an extract in cooking or just sprinkling it on top.
Some cardiovascular disease prevention experts recommend taking one clove per day for two months as part of an occasional cholesterol-lowering regimen.
Look for garlic in your local supermarket or health food store.
The sulfur in garlic improves insulin secretion
The sulfur compounds in garlic have been shown to improve insulin secretion and increase sensitivity to insulin. Researchers found that those with cardiovascular disease who were given garlic experienced a decrease in cardiovascular risk markers.
It is not fully known how the sulfur compounds work to improve insulin secretion and sensitivity because it does not appear to be through absorption of sulfur by the gut or direct effects on pancreatic cells.
The increase in insulin sensitivity means more glucose is taken up by cells in the muscles and liver, therefore less glucose remains in blood circulation.
The cardiovascular risk markers that decreased were cholesterol levels, triglycerides, and LDL-cholesterol which are all harmful to cardiovascular health.
It appears that garlic sulfur compounds may improve insulin secretion and sensitivity which in turn would promote cardiovascular health. However, more research needs to be conducted before it can determine how sulfur works or whether it is a possible treatment of cardiovascular diseases like diabetes or hypercholesterolemia.
Garlic is an excellent source of Vitamin B-complex
Vitamin B6 can help to lower blood sugar levels by interrupting the conversion of sugars to glucose.
It is also needed for the production of several neurotransmitters, including serotonin and dopamine (responsible for feelings of happiness)
Garlic works as a natural antibiotic that has been found to speed up healing time in both animals and humans with respiratory infections by killing off bacteria cells lurking on our skin or inside our lungs.
Garlic is an excellent source of Vitamin B-complex, which can be found in many whole foods. Vitamin B-complex has been shown to have a positive effect on health and wellness by lowering blood sugar levels and boosting moods.
The high content of vitamin C also helps boost the immune system by strengthening it against infection, while the selenium content helps fight off viral infections.
Garlic may be difficult to digest in some people and doesn’t go well with all foods, but it is a healthy alternative for those who cannot tolerate other antibiotics or medications because of weakened immune systems. It can also help soothe the digestive system by easing cramps and flatulence.
Some people may experience heartburn from eating garlic-heavy meals, but for those who can handle it, the benefits outweigh any drawbacks.
Garlic is a natural anti-inflammatory
A garlic clove contains almost 20% of the recommended daily intake for Vitamin C, as well as pantothenic acid which can help to regulate cholesterol levels. It’s also an excellent source of manganese, copper, and selenium — all essential nutrients in maintaining health.
Garlic is a natural anti-inflammatory that makes it perfect for treating conditions like athlete’s foot or arthritis.
Garlic has been used for years as a natural antibacterial and antifungal agent. It also can be effective against viruses, including the common cold or flu virus.
It’s important to eat garlic raw because cooking may change its chemical composition so that many of the health benefits are lost. If you’re looking for an easy way to add more garlic into your diet without having to use too much effort, try adding some minced garlic while sauteing vegetables in olive oil.
What else does eating lots of fresh garlic do?
Lots!
I’m not exaggerating when I say that there might not be anything better than garlic at beating bacteria-induced odor from body parts like armpits, feet, and crotch.
The strong odor of garlic helps to get rid of the smell by killing off some of the bacteria that are causing it.
Garlic has been used for years as a natural antiseptic agent against bacterial infections (including MRSA) because it can bring down fevers and stimulate red blood cells which increase oxygen in the body. It also kills viruses including colds, flu, herpes simplex virus I & II.
Study after study has revealed that garlic is a powerful antioxidant, effective against cancer and heart disease. In addition, it’s been shown to be effective against prostate cancer and colon cancer.
By inhibiting an enzyme called cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2), garlic blocks the synthesis of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins. Prostaglandin is a hormone that causes vasodilation and can lead to cardiovascular disease, so you want garlic to stop its production.
We have also seen in studies that it has even more potent effects when combined with other healthy lifestyle choices such as exercise or a Mediterranean diet.
Garlic has anti-inflammatory properties that have been shown to reduce inflammation in the pancreas, cardiovascular system, and brain.
Raw or Cooked Garlic: Which is better?
It’s a debate that has raged on for years: raw or cooked garlic. Is it better to eat fresh, whole cloves of garlic with their protective skin still intact?
The answer isn’t so clear-cut.
It depends on what tastes better, which method will save more time as well as some other considerations like texture and flavor intensity. But overall, we’ll always recommend using fresh produce instead of canned goods!
While some argue that cooking garlic makes its nutrients more accessible, others say that eating raw garlic gives you all the beneficial properties without any work.
Raw foodists also claim that cooking destroys enzymes and reduces important flavonoids found in plant foods like onions and leeks.
The best way to eat garlic for maximum health benefits is raw or lightly cooked. You should also avoid cooking with oil when you cook it as this may destroy some of its beneficial properties.
Raw garlic has been shown to have higher levels of antioxidants than cooked garlic. However, cooking the cloves in oil before eating them may decrease the oxidizing effects on our cells because it creates heat from fat molecules.
This means that raw garlic may be better for diabetics or hypertensive patients while cooked garlic would be more appropriate for people with stroke. Although chopped garlic has many health benefits, eating it too soon after chopping it can actually reduce its nutritional value. Preferably, let the garlic sit out for at least five minutes before eating.
As with all other plants and herbs, the health benefits of garlic will vary depending on its preparation method. Choose to cook your garlic with other ingredients such as in a soup or stew for some added flavor.
How effective is garlic supplement?
Garlic supplements have been found to be effective in the treatment of high cholesterol and type II diabetes.
However, not all garlic supplements are created equal. If you read labels closely, some products contain little or no active ingredients while others might contain more than one kind of garlic product which may lead to unwanted side effects such as heartburns when taken with other medications or taking too much can cause a person to develop an allergy-type reaction called Herxheimer- reaction that could make them feel worse for a while before they start feeling better from the antibiotic therapy is helping fight off.
It’s always good practice to consult your healthcare provider first about what reactions certain infections may put you at risk for so that you’ll know what to watch out for, especially with new antibiotic therapy.
Studies have demonstrated that garlic supplements are most effective when taken with meals.
Garlic is a natural product and the best kind of garlic supplement to take would be one that contains an all-natural ingredient list, such as extra virgin olive oil or pharmaceutical grade safflower oil.
What are the side effects of garlic?
While we’ve focused on garlic’s benefits, there are some risks associated with eating too much or not preparing it properly.
Garlic can cause bad breath and body odor in some individuals, as well as stomach upset if consumed raw. Garlic should be stored at room temperature out of direct sunlight to prevent it from spoiling too quickly, but refrigerated garlic will last for months.
Garlic is a natural plant that provides many health benefits while also posing some risks such as bad breath or body odor, stomach upset and even heartburn if eaten raw
Garlic can cause an allergic reaction in some people. People who are taking anticoagulants should be careful when eating raw garlic, as they may develop bruising due to decreased platelet function and also have increased bleeding times. Eating cooked garlic does not increase these risks.
The strong smell of garlic may affect those around you. Some people find it unpleasant while others enjoy it.
Garlic may interfere with the effectiveness of various drugs tested on animals such as certain antibiotics like ampicillin and kanamycin; antiparasitic agents like albendazole and mebendazole; some antiviral agents including nelfinavir mesylate (also known by the brand name Viracept) and zidovudine (more commonly identified as AZT); antifungal agents such as ketoconazole, itraconazole propiconozale, fluconazole flucitanozol, and griseofulvin; some analgesics like codeine, morphine, and pethidine (or Demerol); as well as the effects of various herbicides.
How to use garlic to manage diabetes
Garlic can be used to manage diabetes in the following ways:
- Garlic can be used as a cooking ingredient to add flavor and spice.
- Garlic can be consumed raw or cooked in olive oil for its health benefits.
- Garlic may help regulate blood sugar levels because of the allicin, fructans, selenium, polyphenols, and other nutrients it contains.
You should consult your physician before using garlic if you are on medications that interfere with glucose metabolism such as insulin therapy (self-administered or prescribed by a doctor).
It’s important to check your blood sugar at least once a day when taking herbs like garlic and other diabetes treatments. If there is too much pressure put on your pancreas due to high sugars then this could lead to diabetic coma.
How does garlic work as a treatment for diabetes?
Garlic may help regulate blood sugar levels because of the ajoene in it. Ajoene has a chemical structure that is similar to the chemicals sulfoxide and mercaptan, which are found in garlic. These substances may slow down the absorption of sugar from carbohydrates into your bloodstream and speed up insulin’s ability to break them down.
Garlic contains tiny phosphorus molecules called alliinases that release sulfur-containing compounds when crushed or damaged. It’s these sulfur-containing compounds (diallyl thiosulfinates) that have been shown to help regulate blood sugar levels and also act as antioxidants by destroying free radicals before they can damage cells’ DNA.
In addition, cooking with garlic could provide an alternative treatment for diabetes because cooking increases its bioavailability. This means more of the alliinases are released and can potentially have an effect on blood sugar levels.
A study that was done at India’s Institute for Diabetes Research & Training showed promising results in lowering blood sugar levels and cholesterol after participants ate garlic as part of their meals.
Is aged garlic extract better?
Aged garlic extract is supposed to have higher levels of allicin which is a natural compound found in garlic. However, there are some studies that show aged garlic extract does not contain more allicin than regular garlic extract.
So it’s up to the individual person on whether they want to take an expensive supplement when regular may be just as good for them.
People recommend taking a separate supplement if you want to have more benefits than just eating everyday foods with garlic in them. You can add ginger or turmeric if you want to have more benefits from your food.
If you are looking for a higher level of allicin, then taking an aged garlic extract supplement is better than just eating fresh/dried vegetables with garlic in them.
Is it healthy to eat garlic on an empty stomach?
Garlic is one of the healthiest vegetables you can consume. When your body has an empty stomach, it doesn’t use energy to digest food so there’s more for your immune system and other functions.
The only time garlic may cause problems on an empty stomach is if you are taking medication that interacts with garlic — in which case be sure to consult your doctor.
Garlic could be very harsh or hot on the stomach (depending on the species). So, it is highly advisable to have water or tea ready to drink if you want to eat garlic raw in order to cool down its peppery sensation.
Some people consume garlic in the morning on an empty stomach as a detoxification technique to help with indigestion or constipation, which can be achieved by drinking plenty of water and eating some whole grains like oats for breakfast.
Garlic is also known to kill most bacteria that enter the body through food so it’s a great way to start off the day.
The best time of day to eat garlic is on an empty stomach, usually in the morning before breakfast or lunchtime. Make sure you have some water and whole grains available for consumption as well.
How does garlic affect ulcer patients?
Garlic is known to increase stomach acid which is not always good for people with ulcers or those who have experienced heartburn. It is generally not advisable to take garlic on an empty stomach if you have an ulcer, as it can upset the stomach and cause pain.
Garlic is full of both anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help heal ulcers naturally when taken in small amounts, such as one clove per day with food. It also helps to stimulate the immune system which promotes healing throughout the body including on stomach wounds.
The only downside to taking garlic for an extended period of time is that it may have some negative side effects like smelling bad or ‘garlicky breath’.
But if you’re looking for something more effective than over-the-counter drugs without any adverse reactions, then this might be your best bet.
Conclusion
Garlic has been used for centuries as a natural remedy to treat and prevent many conditions. Garlic is a natural anti-inflammatory and can help reduce the swelling of joints, muscles, and other tissues in the body.
The health benefits of garlic are no longer just a myth. Research has shown that garlic can lower blood pressure by up to 20% through its vasodilatory effects on the vascular system. It also reduces inflammation and oxidative stress which results in less pain from arthritis symptoms such as joint stiffness or muscle aches.
Not only does this tasty herb provide relief from some common ailments but it tastes delicious too.
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