For centuries, people have relied on the healing “charms” of garlic. Allicin, a substance found in garlic, naturally fights germs and viruses, keeping disease at bay.
Garlic before sleep has only benefits. PHOTO Archive
Garlic, known for centuries for its medicinal properties, may have additional benefits if consumed an hour before bedtime, according to thehealthsite.com.
If you make a habit of eating a clove of garlic before you retire to sleep, you will give your body a stronger defense system against health invaders. Recent research suggests that certain components of garlic may promote more restful sleep and boost the immune system.
Improving sleep quality
A recent study investigated the impact of garlic consumption on sleep quality in older adults. Participants who took a garlic supplement daily for 40 days reported a significant improvement in sleep quality, including a reduction in the time it took to fall asleep and an increase in deep sleep.
Stimulation of the immune system
Garlic is rich in sulfur compounds such as allicin, which have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. A study published in the journal “Immunology” found that taking garlic extract led to an increase in immune cells in people exposed to colds.
In addition to improving sleep and boosting the immune system, eating garlic before bed may have other potential benefits, such as: lowering blood pressure, improving blood circulation,
Cholesterol reduction.
Although research suggests potential benefits of eating garlic before bed, it's important to consume it in moderation. Eating too much garlic can cause heartburn and other digestive problems if you are prone to it.
How to get rid of bad breath after eating garlic
Apparently an apple a day keeps bad breath at bay. A gut health specialist has gone viral on social media after sharing a surprisingly simple way to get rid of bad breath after eating garlic, The New York Post reports.
According to Dr. Megan Rossi from the UK, bad breath could persist for up to a day.
In addition, she claimed in a post on Instagram on Wednesday that an apple is much more effective than a peppermint gum in removing the smell left by garlic.
Four other herbs can rid you of the smell left by garlic. Photo: Shutterstock (Archive)
The doctor explained that it has been medically proven that the main ingredient in garlic, allicin, stimulates the immune system. However, Rossi revealed the less pleasant side of his consumption, saying it leaves a “strong smell of garlic that can persist for almost a day“.
Instead of chewing gum, Rossi recommended an apple to beat bad breath.
“Plant chemicals (including quercetin) in apple have been shown to interact with sulfur compounds in garlic, eliminating that odor“, said the doctor.
