Should you chew or swallow garlic?
Chloe Ramirez
Updated on March 11, 2026
Ingestion of garlic by chewing (or crushed garlic) can reduce cholesterol, triglyceride, MDA, systolic and diastolic blood pressure even in the presence of increasing fat intake.
Is it better to swallow garlic or chew?
A research has revealed that chewing garlic can reduce cholesterol, triglyceride, MDA, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, regardless of the amount of fat you consume. But swallowing garlic has no significant effect on serum lipids (TG, Chol, LDL and HDL), diastolic blood pressure and cyclosporine serum levels.Is it okay to swallow garlic whole?
Although raw garlic has a stronger flavor and more pungent smell than cooked garlic, it's safe to consume. Raw garlic also retains more allicin, which is the sulfur-containing compound responsible for many of garlic's beneficial health effects.Does garlic need to be chewed?
Don't worry—you don't need to swallow a whole clove of garlic to reap its rewards. Many of the benefits of raw garlic come from an enzyme called allicin that boasts anti-inflammatory, antioxidative and antibacterial properties. “When chopped or crushed, the alliinase enzyme is activated,” Dr.What is the healthiest way to eat garlic?
How to use raw garlic and reap the benefits
- Mince a garlic clove and toss into your salad or salad dressing.
- Make garlic toast, like this blogger, by mincing the raw garlic, and then mix with some ghee or butter, and spread on toast.
- Make a ACV garlic tonic (see recipe below)
- Add to soups or juice with other veggies.
Dr Budweiser: Why You Should Swallow Raw Garlic
What happens when you swallow garlic?
Garlic is highly nutritious and associated with a variety of health benefits. However, if you eat too much of it, it may cause side effects like bad breath, acid reflux, digestive issues, and an increased risk of bleeding.Can I swallow garlic with water?
Swallow the garlic with a full glass of water. Since garlic has its own pungent flavour, chewing into it, may get a bit too much for some. It is advisable to swallow a small chunk with water. Starting the day with lukewarm water can kick-start metabolism too.How should you consume garlic?
Raw garlic contains a component called Allicin, which helps in thinning the blood and reduces the cholesterol levels. Thus, the best way to consume garlic is by eating raw garlic on an empty stomach as the fresh garlic contains Allicin and this component gets diluted during the process of cooking.Can eating raw garlic hurt you?
Garlic has been used safely for up to 7 years. It can cause side effects such as bad breath, heartburn, gas, and diarrhea. These side effects are often worse with raw garlic. Garlic might also increase the risk of bleeding and cause allergic reactions in some people.How can I eat raw garlic?
Make them fresh at home to get the best taste and the most benefit from the ingredients.
- Pesto. Fresh pesto is a delicious way to eat raw garlic, and you're getting the goodness (and anti-odour properties) of the fresh herbs as well. ...
- Guacamole. ...
- Salsa. ...
- Bruschetta. ...
- Dips. ...
- Salad dressings. ...
- Aioli. ...
- Gremolata.