Who should not eat garlic? Understanding side effects and health risks of garlic overconsumption

Garlic (Allium sativum) has been valued for centuries both as a flavourful ingredient and a natural remedy. Rich in bioactive compounds like allicin, it provides a range of health benefits, including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and heart-protective effects. However, despite these advantages, garlic is not suitable for everyone. Some people may experience unpleasant side effects or worsening of certain health issues when consuming garlic. For instance, it can interfere with blood-thinning medications, aggravate digestive problems, or cause allergic reactions. Understanding who should avoid garlic and recognising its potential side effects is important to ensure safe and effective use.



Individuals who should avoid eating garlic
1. People on blood thinners or anticoagulants

Garlic possesses antithrombotic properties, meaning it can prevent blood clots from forming. While this is beneficial for cardiovascular health, it can pose a risk for individuals taking blood-thinning medications like warfarin or aspirin. Excessive garlic intake may increase the risk of bleeding, especially during surgery or injury.


2. Individuals with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Garlic can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, the muscle that prevents stomach acid from entering the esophagus. This relaxation can lead to acid reflux and exacerbate GERD symptoms, such as heartburn and nausea. Those with GERD may need to limit their garlic consumption to manage their condition effectively.


3. People with fructan intolerance or Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Garlic contains fructans, a type of carbohydrate that can cause digestive issues in individuals with fructan intolerance or IBS. Symptoms may include bloating, gas, and stomach pain. For those following a low FODMAP diet to manage these conditions, garlic intake should be limited .


4. Individuals with garlic allergies

Some people may have an allergy to garlic, leading to symptoms such as mouth and throat irritation, nausea, and in rare cases, anaphylaxis. Those with known allergies to other Allium species, like onions or leeks, may also be sensitive to garlic.


5. Pregnant and breastfeeding women

While garlic is generally safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, excessive consumption should be avoided. High amounts may stimulate uterine contractions or affect the baby's feeding patterns due to the strong odour transmitted through breast milk.



Side effects of excessive garlic consumption

1. Digestive disturbances: Overconsumption of garlic can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, including bloating, gas, and stomach pain. These symptoms are particularly prevalent in individuals with sensitive digestive systems or those prone to acid reflux .

2. Bad breath and body odour: Garlic contains sulfur compounds that can cause persistent bad breath and body odour. These odours are released through the lungs and skin, making them difficult to eliminate. Consuming milk or parsley may help neutralise these odours.

3. Skin irritation: Handling large amounts of garlic can cause skin irritation for some individuals. To avoid this, it's advisable to wear gloves when mincing or chopping significant quantities of garlic.

4. Dizziness and low blood pressure: Garlic has blood pressure-lowering effects, which can be beneficial for individuals with hypertension. However, in those with naturally low blood pressure or those on antihypertensive medications, excessive garlic consumption may lead to dizziness or fainting.

5. Increased risk of bleeding: As mentioned earlier, garlic's blood-thinning properties can increase the risk of bleeding, especially when consumed in large amounts or combination with certain medications. This is particularly concerning during surgical procedures or for individuals with bleeding disorders



Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can garlic cause allergic reactions?
Yes, although uncommon, some individuals can be allergic to garlic, experiencing symptoms like swelling, rash, nausea, or in severe cases, anaphylaxis. Anyone suspecting an allergy should avoid garlic and seek medical advice.

Q2: Is garlic safe during pregnancy?
Moderate amounts of garlic are generally safe during pregnancy. However, large quantities might cause uterine contractions or affect the baby through breast milk, so moderation is recommended.

Q3: Does garlic interact with medications?
Yes. Garlic can interact with blood thinners, antihypertensive drugs, and certain other medications, potentially increasing bleeding risks or altering blood pressure. Consult your doctor before adding garlic supplements to your routine.

Q4: Why does garlic cause bad breath?
Garlic contains sulfur compounds that are absorbed into the bloodstream and expelled through the lungs and skin, causing persistent bad breath and body odour.

Q5: Can garlic worsen acid reflux or GERD?
Yes. Garlic relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter, potentially triggering or worsening symptoms of acid reflux and GERD, such as heartburn and nausea.





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