Garlic benefits: food versus supplements

Question
Hi,

What are the benefits of adding Garlic in one's diet? I am young man that is healthily. Is taking 1,000 mg of Garlic in a form of a supplement softgel recommended? I am currently taking 1 gram of Omega 3. Will it interfere with Omega 3 Fatty Acids?

Thanks

Answer
Dave,

Since 3,000 b.c. garlic has been used not only to spice up meals but also as a medicine. It contains vitamins A, B, and C, valuable minerals germanium, selenium, and zinc, amino acids, etc. The active component is allicin, it's responsible for garlic's odor. Herbalists agree that garlic does not have to be eaten raw for maximal health benefits. Sometimes, extracts and oils are even more effective.

As a supplement garlic is used: as a bactericide for bacteria and parasites, to decrease cholesterol levels and high blood pressure, prevent heart disease, stroke, and hardening of the arteries, even to lower the risk of certain cancers.

Garlic makes the blood thinner, same as aspirin so if you have problem of stopping bleeding ore are bruised easily, don't over-consume garlic and garlic supplements. Garlic is recognized as a functional food meaning that it has health benefits beyond basic nutrition.

Read more about functional foods
http://atkinszone.com/faq/2008/10/what-is-typical-example-of-functional.html

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