Does Garlic Lower Blood Sugar?

Nowadays, there are increased cases of diabetes. This is a condition when the body cannot produce enough insulin or use the insulin effectively. Insulin is the hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating your blood sugar levels and preventing it from getting too high or low. If diabetes is left untreated, it can cause heart failure, obesity, and even complications in the kidney.A few dietary changes, like the addition of certain foods that can reduce blood glucose, can manage your diabetes. Now, does garlic lower blood sugar levels? Fortunately, garlic tops the blood sugar-lowering foods you can add to your daily diet if you have diabetes. Garlic, loaded with anti-inflammatory properties, can prevent the risk of type-2 diabetes. According to a study, it is also found to reduce fasting blood glucose. Read the article to learn about garlic's nutritional value, how good garlic is for diabetic patients, and many more facts!

The Nutritional Value Of Garlic

Garlic is a rare food with a low Glycemic Index(GI)score. This means the garlic GI index will have little effect on the blood glucose. Also, being carbs-free, it is among the most effective foods that help lower blood sugar levels. Many people called it a "wonder herb," and there is no denying this. It's because garlic is estimated to contain around 400 phytochemical components and has antibacterial and antiseptic effects, making it a potent medicinal remedy to cure diabetes. Moreover, it is rich in an exceptional compound called 'Allicin,' responsible for its great taste and intense aroma.

According to the USDA, 100 g of raw garlic consists:

• Carbohydrates: 33.1 g
• Protein: 6.4 grams
• Dietary fiber: 2.1 g
• Calories: 149
• Fats: 0.5 g
• Iron: 1.7 mg
• Vitamin C: 31.2 mg
• Potassium: 401 mg
• Selenium: 14.2 mcg
• Phosphorous: 153 mg

Does Garlic Lower Blood Sugar Levels?

Yes, garlic can efficiently lower blood sugar. The ability of garlic to lower glucose levels in a diabetic patient depends on its complex influence on the body's physiological mechanisms. Allicin, an active compound known for its therapeutic effects, is vital in this phenomenon. Generally, Allicin is found to improve insulin sensitivity, which eases the glucose intake by the cells. Its presence makes the insulin function more efficient and thus, helps regulate the blood sugar levels.

Also Read:6 Ways to Lower Your Insulin Levels

Moreover, garlic also inhibits the activity of many enzymes which are involved in the process of carbohydrate metabolism. The results are a slow breakdown of complex sugar content(that you get from carbs-rich food) into glucose and a reduction in blood sugar spike post-meal. Besides this, research says that garlic's Allicin delivers antioxidant effects that help alleviate oxidative stress associated with rising blood sugar. By managing these aspects, such as carbohydrate metabolism and oxidative balance, garlic is a natural regulator of blood sugar in diabetic patients.

Is Garlic Good For Diabetes?

Yes, garlic is good for Type 2 diabetes, caused by increased blood sugar levels. Being a good source of natural antioxidants and potent zinc, it helps reduce the glucose levels in the blood. Moreover, spikes in blood sugar levels are also due to the quick carbohydrate metabolism. When diabetic patients consume garlic, vitamin B6 nutrients in it work by slowing down carbs' metabolism, consequently maintaining the sugar level. Besides this, the compounds in the body, such as the amino acid homocysteine, are responsible for causing diabetes. Consuming garlic for an extended period can reduce the impact of this compound on the body. Furthermore, Allicin and some other sulfur-containing compounds found in garlic also enhance the insulin level, thus improving your diabetes.

Also Read:Can Diabetics Eat Watermelon?

Benefits Of Garlic For Low Blood Sugar Levels

Garlic is a potent food, offering several health benefits. Insulin resistance associated with low blood sugar is commonly an issue in diabetic patients, which slows down the ability of the body to make use of insulin efficiently. According to research, garlic can decrease insulin inactivation due to its sulfur-containing Allicin. Moreover, low blood sugar is often accompanied by high blood pressure, causing cardiovascular problems. Consulting a doctor and getting a prescription for the best garlic supplements for high blood pressure can help maintain the blood pressure. This, as a result, provides an additional protective layer for the cardiovascular system of diabetic patients, helping to lower blood glucose levels.

How Much Blood Sugar Is Lower After Eating Garlic?

Many studies say that if you have type 2 diabetes, consuming nutrient-rich garlic in moderate amounts( at least one or two cloves in a day) can improve insulin sensitivity. The results of this are low blood sugar levels in patients struggling with type 2 diabetes. According to a study, following the garlic intake, a decrease in the fasting glucose level as per the weeks is:

• 1-2 weeks [SMD = -1.61, 95%CI (-2.89, -0.32)]
• 3-4 weeks [SMD = -2.87, 95%CI (-4.74, -1.00)],
• 12 weeks [SMD = -9.57, 95%CI (-12.39, -6.75)],
• 24 weeks [SMD = -21.02, 95%CI (-32.47, -9.57)]

How To Consume Garlic To Lower Blood Sugar?

Though adding garlic to your diabetic diet can be healthy, it is recommended to consume it in moderation. This is how you can include it in your food:

• Chop the garlic cloves and add to your regular salads, or put minced garlic in the lettuce salad as a dressing.
• Take warm water and have raw garlic on an empty stomach. It might cause acidity for some, so add honey.
• Make a cup of garlic tea by adding crushed garlic, black pepper, or ginger. Adding honey, lemon, and cinnamon can enhance the taste.
• If you don't like garlic's strong taste and odor, have garlic greens and scapes(long shoots that grow from garlic bulbs).
• Also, garlic supplements can be the best option to avoid garlic's strong odor and taste. But, before that, consult your doctor.
• You can mix the chopped garlic in savory curries, soups, infusions, pickles, sauces, garnishes, etc.

Side Effects Of Garlic

Well, garlic is effective and potent in flavor as well as odor. Generally, it is safe to consume, but some people may experience minor side effects, which include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Bloating
• Heartburn
• Acidity
• Diarrhea

Some people may be more likely to notice a few side effects if they consume raw garlic. If you are a diabetic patient with AF(Atrial fibrillation) and are taking anticoagulant drugs, it is better to seek medical help before adding garlic to your diet. This is because garlic can severely increase the effects of these types of drugs.

Conclusion

Garlic is an excellent food that can help control your diabetes. It regulates your sugar spikes and manages healthy blood sugar levels. Moreover, this potent food fights off diabetes-related issues such as high cholesterol, cardiovascular disorders, and Alzheimer's as well. Moderate intake of garlic can maintain your overall well-being. Use it in raw, fresh form, as cooking can lower its therapeutic qualities. In addition, garlic supplements are also promising alternatives. However, you must reach out to your doctor and take their advice before using these supplements.