Doctor 24/7: Does garlic help prevent colds?

'I heard that garlic helps prevent flu, is that true? What is the best way to eat garlic for health? Are there any side effects? Thank you, doctor!' (C. Tai, in Ho Chi Minh City).

Master - Doctor Vo Thi To Hi, Head of the Department of Nutrition, Gia An 115 Hospital (HCMC) explains: Garlic contains many biologically active compounds. The most commonly mentioned ingredients are alliin and alliinase - when garlic is crushed, chopped or cut, alliinase catalyzes the conversion of alliin to allicin. Allicin is a sulfur compound with a characteristic odor and is primarily responsible for the antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral and antioxidant effects recorded in experiments. In addition, garlic also contains vitamins (especially vitamin C), minerals (selenium), polyphenols and other sulfur derivatives - these substances contribute to immune regulation and anti-inflammatory.

Garlic contains many biologically active compounds.

Photo: AI

On the mechanism of garlic's effects on respiratory infections and viruses

Direct effects: Test-tube studies have shown that allicin can inhibit the growth of a number of pathogens, including bacteria and viruses. However, test-tube results do not necessarily translate to human efficacy, due to large differences in active ingredient concentrations, environmental conditions, and allicin stability.

Immune-regulating effects: Some studies show that garlic can help the immune system work more effectively by helping the body's defense cells work "faster and stronger" when encountering bacteria and viruses. In other words, garlic helps the body respond better when attacked by pathogens.

Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects: Garlic helps reduce tissue damage caused by excessive inflammatory responses.

Several randomized trials have shown that consuming garlic (usually in extract supplement form) may reduce the frequency or duration of the common cold compared with placebo, but the quality of the studies has been inconsistent, the designs have varied, and the results have been mixed.

For influenza, the evidence is very limited and insufficient to support the claim that garlic can replace proven preventive measures such as vaccination. Thus, garlic may be a useful adjunct in general prevention, but is not a specific protection or a substitute for vaccines and medical measures.

The best way to use garlic

The most beneficial way to use garlic is to eat raw garlic or crushed garlic and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before cooking. When garlic cloves are crushed or chopped, the enzymes in the garlic are activated to create allicin. If garlic is put into heat immediately, this allicin will be significantly reduced.

People with good digestive systems can eat 1-2 cloves of raw garlic per day. For those who are prone to bloating, garlic can be mixed into dishes after cooking, or used in easier-to-digest forms such as black garlic or garlic soaked in honey. These forms still retain many antioxidants and are less irritating.

Garlic is generally harmless, but if used incorrectly or in excess it can cause discomfort. The most common side effects are heartburn, stomach pain, bloating, or bad breath, especially when eating raw garlic in large amounts.

The most beneficial way to use garlic is to eat raw garlic or crushed and chopped garlic, let it sit for 10-15 minutes before cooking.

Photo: AI

In addition, some groups of people need to be more careful when using garlic:

• People with stomach and duodenal problems: Raw garlic can cause irritation, increasing pain, bloating or heartburn. This group should use processed garlic or use small amounts.
• People with allergies: A small number of people may experience itching, rash or irritation when eating raw garlic.
• Children: Do not give children too much raw garlic because it can cause stomachache and indigestion.

Although garlic is good for health, not everyone can use "more is better"; using the right amount and appropriate for your health condition will be safer and more effective. In addition, it is important to note that you should absolutely not apply garlic to the skin to treat acne or treat diseases according to word of mouth, because garlic can cause burning and blistering of the skin.

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Source: https://thanhnien.vn/bac-si-24-7-toi-co-giup-phong-cam-cum-khong-185251201222852905.htm