The Role of Garlic In Decreasing Inflammation

approach to well-beinghealth coachingdetoxificationhealthy eating

Mar 17

Inflammation is the body's natural response to injury or infection. It helps protect and heal damaged tissue. However, chronic inflammation that persists for long periods of time can lead to numerous health problems. Finding ways to decrease inflammation is therefore important for maintaining overall health and well-being. One natural food that has powerful anti-inflammatory effects is garlic.

Garlic has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years. Modern research has confirmed many of its traditional uses and elucidated how it works to reduce inflammation in the body. Garlic contains a variety of active compounds, including allicin, that have antioxidant, anti-microbial, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Several ways garlic can help decrease inflammation include:

Lowering levels of inflammatory cytokines

Cytokines are small proteins released by immune cells that affect communication between cells and stimulate inflammation. Studies show that garlic supplementation can significantly decrease levels of key pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF-alpha, IL-1beta, and IL-6. The allicin in garlic blocks their synthesis and activity.

Increasing production of anti-inflammatory cytokines

Conversely, garlic has been shown to increase levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines like IL-10 that help regulate immune function and curtail excessive inflammation. The polysulfides in garlic boost levels of these protective cytokines.

Activating the Nrf2 pathway

The Nrf2 protein pathway turns on the body's natural antioxidant and detoxification defense mechanisms. Garlic organosulfur compounds activate this pathway, inducing the production of antioxidants that suppress inflammatory pathways and protect cells from free radical damage.

Inhibiting NF-kB signaling

The NF-kB pathway controls the expression of pro-inflammatory genes like COX-2 that drive inflammatory responses. Garlic compounds, including diallyl sulfide, block this signaling cascade by preventing the activation of NF-kB transcriptional activity. This inhibits the propagation of inflammation.

Boosting glutathione

Glutathione is the body's master antioxidant. Higher glutathione levels minimize oxidative stress that triggers inflammatory reactions. S-allyl cysteine and other garlic constituents increase glutathione biosynthesis and regeneration. This strengthens antioxidant capacity.

Reducing histamine levels

The compound allicin in garlic has been shown to decrease the activity of enzymes that stimulate the release of inflammatory mediators like histamine. Lower histamine levels mean less inflammation.

Improving gut health

Gut microbiome imbalances can initiate systemic inflammation. The beneficial compounds in garlic help support a healthy microbial environment and intestinal barrier function. This protects against inflammatory leukocyte infiltration from the gut.

Inhibiting pro-inflammatory enzymes

Enzymes like cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase are involved in generating inflammatory eicosanoids like prostaglandins. Garlic has been shown to block these enzymes, disrupting inflammatory pathways.

The wide range of anti-inflammatory mechanisms displayed by garlic makes it a potent medicinal food for mitigating chronic inflammation and its effects throughout the body. Consuming garlic regularly can help prevent inflammatory conditions like heart disease, neurodegeneration, arthritis, and even cancer.

Try incorporating more garlic into your diet by:

● Adding raw minced garlic to dressings, marinades, and soups

● Sauteing garlic cloves in olive oil and tossing with vegetables

● Making aioli or toum garlic sauce to use as a flavorful condiment

● Taking an aged garlic extract supplement if you don't like eating raw garlic

Controlling inflammation is key to staying healthy as you age. Let garlic be your inflammation-fighting ally. Its ability to inhibit multiple inflammatory pathways can help prevent damage and disease. Harnessing the natural power of garlic is an easy way to boost your overall well-being.

If you're interested in reaching your health goals, CLICK HERE for a FREE 30-Minute Health Discovery Session. I'll provide you with a personalized approach to taming inflammation and optimizing well-being with holistic nutrition, stress management, and mind-body practices.

Let's talk soon!

I have 3 different memberships to support your self-care, check these out here… https://www.drlaramay.com/memberships Whether you are looking for monthly energy healing, quarterly/seasonal detoxing, or monthly healthy eating recipes, I’ve got you covered.

If you are looking for more personalized help then you can take advantage of my Beta Life Coaching Program on sale right now for $160. 8 sessions in 8 weeks focused on whatever you need most. Here is the link to check it out… https://www.drlaramay.com/store/p/light-body-life-coaching-beta-tester

It is my privilege to be able to guide you along your healing journey. Please feel free to reply and let me know how I can be of service to you.

Namaste,

P.S.: Don’t forget! Join me on my Facebook page, as well as YouTube, Instagram & Twitter @drlaramay.

P.S.S.: Be sure to tune in to my podcast on your favorite platform, iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Podbean, or Anchor Fm @Light Body Radio to get all the juicy info coming your way in an easily digestible format. I look forward to hearing your feedback, comments, and suggestions.

Are you finally ready to break up with sugar?

If so, I’ve got the perfect thing!

Grab your FREE guide, 3 Ways to Quit Sugar to give yourself that nudge you need for success.

Say YES to yourself, and grab this FREE guide NOW

Hi, I'm Lara!

(pronounced like Sarah, but with a L)

Are you ready to lose weight, reduce stress, and reinvigorate your life?! Together let’s uncover your motivators for change, and turn your vision for your vibrant future into your new reality.

meet dr. lara